| ID |
DatePosted |
FirstName |
Surname |
Message |
Contact |
| 623 | 03-07-2010 | Tim | Outteridge | I was at Verdala in 1966 and was in St Vincent House. I was in either 4AS or 4JS. | |
| 622 | 20-06-2010 | Dee (Denise) | Heath | I was at Verdala from 1961 to 1962. Woody Woodhams....still remembered with great fondness. | |
| 621 | 08-06-2010 | John | Pilbeam | Hi! I was at Verdala from 1947 to 1952. The Headmaster was Mr Benton and my form teacher was Miss Winterbottam [giggle giggle] My father was CPO Jack Pilbeam HMS Liverpool, he served two terms as the Lower Deck Representative. We lived in Seglea | |
| 620 | 05-06-2010 | Carl | Wood | Is there anyone out there who was in Miss Leslie's Class in 1966, the year has some resonance with me as it is the last time England won the world cup | |
| 618 | 01-06-2010 | Stephen | Murray | I, my older brother and sister all attended verdala school from 1957 - 1959, our family name was Riggs back then our stepfather's name. recently i have been back to revisit my childhood and the only location that i was unable to find is the site of the school, can any one furnish me a with pin point position on the map, was it in Zabar?. | |
| 616 | 30-05-2010 | Julia | Johnson | Wow! Looking at the site is bringing back a lot of memories! Woody Woodhams - great teacher - always remember how kind he was! | |
| 614 | 27-05-2010 | Liz | Mardel | Jo, I've put an answer in the Forum - Staff Room section. | |
| 613 | 25-05-2010 | Jo | Mogridge Now Woodall | Does anyone know the whereabouts of Mrs Farrugia or her family? I was in her class in 57 or 58 and remember thinking it strange that a "Maltese" teacher spoke with such a strong Scottish accent! | |
| 612 | 09-05-2010 | Samantha | Parr (Was Loftus) | Great site so glad I found it! Does anyone know what happened to Mrs Medlicott? I was in Miss Grimes' class 1973/4 (ish) and then moved on to Luqa and had Mrs Medlicott there but both she and Mr Medlicott had been at Verdala. If anyone remembers me get in touch! I had an older sister, Tracy, at Tal Handaq. | |
| 611 | 18-04-2010 | Chantal | Stewart | I was at Verdala from 1956 to 1958. In January 1957 someone pushed me off the top of a wall and I broke my ankle. Luckily Spring was lovely that year and I revised my English grammar for two months in the super garden of Villa Zammit in Sliema until my ankle got better. My Dad was on the C-in-C's staff in the Navy. I remember the N°36 bus racing to school with its amazing 'italian style' klaxon. | |
| 610 | 18-04-2010 | Gary | Davey | I was at Verdala from about 1960 to 1962. There were 4 of us Davey's but Mark the youngest was probably too young at that time to attend.
Paul, John and Gary did attend. I remember Mrs Postings and some others will come to me I'm sure. I was 5-7 years old. My Dad was a Medic in the Navy. I went on to Royal Hospital School in Ipswich. I went back to Malta for a day in 1978 ish with the RAF. | |
| 609 | 13-04-2010 | Steven | Jewell | i attended verdala and tal handaq schools in the 1970's 74 to 76 i would love to hear from any body who remebers me | |
| 607 | 02-04-2010 | Elsie | Brown | i went to st andrews school in pembrook st julians as well as my sister my brother james and sister eileen went to tal handaq school im looking for the green family micheal and patricia .susan.jenifer last heard in austrailer i go to malta often and visit my old school and take photos my home is in dover | |
| 605 | 23-03-2010 | Geoff | Bamber | Thanks Liz. Yes I did. They are not related. Pauline's family came as Barry's left. Bizarrley they lived in the same flat in Vittoriosa as far as I remember. | |
| 604 | 23-03-2010 | Liz | Mardel (McMeeking) | Bill and Geoffrey - Did you see that Pauline and Barry Fenton have both signed this Guest Book at different times? Click on the 'Sort by Surname' tab and just scroll down. | |
| 603 | 21-03-2010 | Geoffrey | Bamber | Bill McLean - Your Father must have known my Dad as he was a regular at Miss Toner's Rose Shamrock & Thistle Bar. We lived almost opposite, facing St. Lawrence's Church. Barry Fenton was a pal of mine. Somewhere I have a pic or two of the regulars supping their Symonds,Farsons & Cisks, I must look it out for you. Alec Guiness drank there during the filming of The Malta Story. | |
| 602 | 17-03-2010 | William (Bill) | McLean | attended verdala 1952-54. lived in marsaskala then pawla. my chum was christopher head who also lived in dockyard street,pawla, also remember barry fenton, whose dad and mine used to have a drink together on a sunday in a pub called the rose, shamrock and thistle in vittoriosa In 1958-60 was in singapore and met two girls in the prize list at verdala 1954, Judy wheeler and Sandra Trundle. I retired in 1994 aged 50 and lived in marsaskala until 2000
when returned to Scotland to be near my mum was getting on. Bill Mc Lean | |
| 597 | 05-03-2010 | Webmaster | Webmaster | Alastair is returning home to Scotland in April. Missing the cold, the snow and all the challenges and problems the UK has to offer! Living and working on an idyllic and backward island in the Carribean sounds great but after a while it becomes rather boring. Missing good food and good company. Sun and turquoise seas can become rather tedious at times and anyway, you cannot beat the Highlands and Western Isles of Scotland for scenery. Best regards to all - Alastair | |
| 596 | 03-03-2010 | Anne | Beveridge | Attended Verdala '66 to '69 and lived in Egmont Close the last year. Loved the Web site. Brought back so many memories, especially the swimming pool and that disgusting warm milk. Was in Ms. Farrujia's (??) class when I left and have many fold memories of her. She was a lovely teacher. Thanks for putting the Web site together and to everyone for sharing their memories. | |
| 595 | 08-02-2010 | Ann | Burton | I attend Verdala from 1960 to Summer 1962. I was in Mr Radcliff's class. The 2 1/2 years I was there were my last 2 years at primary school.
My dad was running two cub packs in his sparetime.
Loved looking at the photos, but didn't see any pupils I recognised.
Wonder if there is anyone who remembers me? | |
| 594 | 29-01-2010 | David | Foster | Attended Verdala 1955-1957? Father officer in charge Diving School Manoel Island.Brother William Foster attended Tal Handaq.Anybody remember us? I now live in Australia and would be interested to hear from anyone as I might be came across this site and has memories coming back. | |
| 593 | 23-01-2010 | Sue | Jenkins | Lovely to find this super site, I have so enjoyed trawling through it and looking at all the photos.
I taught at Verdala 1961-63, locally-engaged when my husband was serving on HMS Ausonia.What a delight to see photos of Miss Candey, Peter Ross and others that I remembered. Sparked me off and I'm beginning to remember things I didn't even know I'd forgotten!
We had a great three years in Malta and I have always wanted to go back. I don't think my husband has been so keen to recapture his lost youth- till this year when he has suggested that we celebrate my 70th ( ouch!)birthday with a holiday in Malta. I am so excited that I almost feel 21 again! Roll on May!
| |
| 592 | 14-01-2010 | Sam | Graham | I have just registered with the site. Lived in Malta from 1974-1977. Lived in Tigne Barracks and went to Verdala and St Andrews and have actually got school year books for both schools with lots of photos to scan and upload!! Will be intresting to see what memories they stir!! | |
| 591 | 12-01-2010 | Sheila | Richards-Hyde Nee Swinn | Lovely looking at pictures of the school.Progress is great but memories linger on | |
| 590 | 11-01-2010 | Paul | Ditcher | I would love to hear about any upcoming reunions.My sister and I attended the school from 71-73. Im a regular summer visitor to Malta and would love to correspond with anyone who would love to share wonderful memories. | |
| 588 | 05-01-2010 | Lyn | Burden | My sister Jan, brother Mark and myself Lyn (Burden) all attended Verdala school from 1961 until 1963. I passed my 11+ from 4A I think the teacher was Mr. King, I remember he was a great teacher. In 2c my teacher was Mrs. Fallon, a lovely lady. We all remember the school with fantastic memories. Cdr. Sumnall was the head, fond memories of the climbing frames, buses, sunshine and lots of fun. I have a Vice-Captain badge for Nelson, possibly from 1963, can't remember who the Captain was, perhaps someone else does! | |
| 587 | 02-01-2010 | Lynne | Poole | Maiden name: Lynne Diana Merrin
I went to Verdala in 1954 - moving on to Tal-Handaq after the 11+exam. Father posted to RNAS Hal-Far - later to HMS Woodbridge-Haven. We left Malta in 1958. Lived in Birzebbuga on the seafront. | |
| 586 | 01-01-2010 | Jan | Walters | Just found the Verdala website and trawling through the messages found one from Chris Jenkins sent in March 2002..... yes, I am the Jan Walters he mentioned! I attended Verdala 1961-64, and well remember Mr Radford in 4AJ. That school made such an impact and many fond memories. My younger brother (Stephen) was in the Infants Department at the same time, with myolder brothers (Andrew, James and Philip) attending Verdala in the late 50's. | |
| 585 | 27-12-2009 | Ian | Sumnall | The photo you have of Christiane Morris at Sports Day 1964 shows my mum giving her the medal with my father Commander Kenneth Sumnall who was the Headmaster from 1961 1964 standing next to her. I will find some photos of him and the staf and send them to yo later,
Regards Ian Sumnall | |
| 584 | 27-12-2009 | Sheila | Richards-Hyde Nee Swinn | At last contact between Joi and I . Lots of e-mails flying thru the ether and even photos. Look forward to being at the Re-union in Sept.2010 Many thanks to this guestbook for making all possible | |
| 583 | 16-12-2009 | Dorothy | Hickmott | Can't believe that I have just seen a picture of me aged 10 at the Sports Day in 1956. Thats mean in the front row to the right 'jumping the gun'.
My granddaughter is wanting to search family history--what I will have to show her when she visits at Christmas!
Anyone remember Miss Jessup? | |
| 581 | 24-11-2009 | Sheila | Richards-Hyde Nee Swinn | Could I please ask for my name to be contacted when 2010 re-union venue is available. Thank you | |
| 580 | 19-11-2009 | Sheila | Richards-Hyde Nee Swinn | Many thanks to Jane Banks Liz Mardel and David Woolfenden for their help and advice about contacting OV'S.Will keep reviewing site as I hvae not been able to contact Joi(Joy) Taylor yet. And yes the sun still shines in Malta and I hear they are phasing out our "school buses"in which we had fun racing to school from Kalafrana in Skinny and Fatty Banana regards Sheila | |
| 579 | 18-11-2009 | Rob | Brown | I attended rns verdala 1956-1958. I cant say that I remember any names but can remember the school very well, My father was a CPO and served on HMS surprise which was moored at Senglea point which is where i lived with my brother Tony and my sister Barbara. we spent our weekends at amongs others Golden sands. marsa scala, pretty bay,and
Recasali(if thats how its spelt)what a wonderful time that I had and I will never forget the wonderful experience which I was previliged to have. we travelled from england on a ship called the Empire Ken or Delwara, it took 7 days and had a great time also. I would be pleased to hear from anyone who was there around that time. | |
| 576 | 17-11-2009 | Sheila | Richards-Hyde Nee Swinn | Still waiting for Joy Taylor to get in touch Am back from Malta hols. | |
| 574 | 07-11-2009 | Sheila | Richards-Hyde Nee Swinn | Would like to find Joy Taylor, Valerie Fletcher, Maggie Woods. We lived at RNAS Kalafrana in Block C1 from I think 1949-1951,We had a large family and my Dad was CPO R Swinn. Attended Verdala and remember the Bus races of Fatty Banana and Skinny Banana on the way to school. Not many school photos but haver a few family shots. Anyone rember me or my brother Ronnie. Sheila Richards-Hyde nee Swinn | |
| 573 | 03-11-2009 | Julian | Brownridge | Lovely to find this splendid website. So many happy memories of Malta and Verdala, where my older brother David and I attended 53/54, I in infants, he in juniors, but can't remember any class numbers. Those glorious bus rides to and from school! Ours was quite a swish Bedford but the fastest was a beaten up old American one. Sports days on the "field" and the swimming gala at Ricasoli - happy days. Who remembers the lemonade shop at the school?
I don't remember any names except my best mate Andrew Hudson - where are you now, Andrew? Visited the school on a holiday in 76 and the place hadn't changed much, but that's a long time ago now, so I wonder what it's like now? I have a photo of me with classmates performing at the Christmas 53 school concert if anyone's interested. | |
| 570 | 18-09-2009 | David | Woolfenden | What a great site! Fantastic memories, I have been sitting here all day since finding the site. My life has been on hold whilst I indulge myself in nostalgia. I was a pupil at Verdala April 1957 to July 1960 and played right wing for the schools soccer "A" team (I'm going to supply a photo for the site later). My brother and sister Billy and Sandra also attended Verdala school. I was 11 when we left in 1960 so must have been in th 4th year. I think I was in Hawkins house(we wore yellow ties and belts anyway).Keep up the great site - fantastic | |
| 568 | 07-09-2009 | Chris | Edge | Just come across this site as I plan my first visit back to Malta since 1960!! Attended Verdala in 59 and 60: Infants ?5 Miss Whitelaw and 1BJ Miss Parkinson.
Two friends I remember in 1BJ: Andrew Surridge and Douglas Pringle. Where are they now??!!
We lived in Birzebuggia - Dad worked at RNAS HalFar. Have just retired from a career in HM Diplomatic Service. Happy memories of Verdala, and the bus ride to and from school! Hope to see the school, and our apartment, again when I visit in a few weeks time. | |
| 567 | 06-09-2009 | Joi | Taylor | Just a thought ... does anyone remember me I wonder ... Joi Taylor 1947-1950 ... or my good friend at the time ... Sheila Swinn and her brother Ronnie?? | |
| 565 | 02-09-2009 | Andrew | Tebb | I was in Malta from Oct 63-65 and started school at Verdala in 1964, with my late elder brother Steven ( six years older). Steven went onto Tal-Handaq and went through afew classes from, I think 13 to 6 to 2? I have just started a teaching job in Cyprus, Geography. | |
| 564 | 30-08-2009 | Joi | Taylor | Found this site today and cannot believe how many memories came flooding back .. I attended Verdala from 1948-1950 having previously attended Tal Handaq. Dad was stationed at Kalafrana but also worked at St Angelo ... Ice cream in a small cafe in Seliema once a week, yum!! Best ever! After running across the school grounds (with many others.. one at a time .. shouting "I'm free" ... I was cast as Jill in our school play ... Babes in the Wood ... spent most of my new found fame lying asleep on the floor in the woods .. Oh No......... I was thrown in the sea by Dad and told to paddle (could not swim at the time)I soon had a grasp on staying alive ...... I loved every minute of my three years in Malta .. but strangely enough have never returned. I have lived in USA, Germany, Cyprus, Egypt but have yet to return to Malta .. maybe next year!! Sahhah | |
| 563 | 30-08-2009 | Joi | Taylor | I attended Tal Handaq RN School in 1947 and subsequently transferred to Verdala a year later. My teacher's name was Miss French ... I loved my time at Verdala and still remember "Skinny Banana and Fat Banana" our two buses from Kalafrana. Lunches were great at St Angelo Naval Base .. three course lunch, four at one table ... summer only half day at school and sunshine galore ...oh happy days. I have some photos which I will sort out and post at a later date. | |
| 562 | 24-08-2009 | Geoff | Harding | Attended Verdala 1955-1957. Teacher was Mrs Robson, who lost her husband to a believed shark attack off one of the beaches. Remember the swimming galas at HMS Racasali and the boat ride to get there. Spent all my timeat Manoel Island swimming and diving.Happy days | |
| 561 | 24-08-2009 | Geoff | Harding | 1955-1957. HEAD MASTER Lieut Comm Bouy | |
| 558 | 08-08-2009 | Peter | Ramsey | I lived in Pawla Malta from 1960-62 and went to Verdala. I was only 5 or 6 at the time so memories are patchy but I remember it as the finest time of my childhood.
I have no photos to share as my mother hated the place and dad was always away with the "peas and gravy".
I have vivid pictures of the buses lined up with those quirky wheel hubs and I often lost mine in the chaos.
I remember telling a story to impress my classmates on the bus that I ate flies and fought tigers!
What a time it was! | |
| 557 | 29-07-2009 | Leslie | Platt | At Verdala 1964-67. Lived at Falcon Flats initially then Egmont Close, Sliema. Dad (Ted Platt) worked at Dingli and some may remember my brother Peter who was two years older than me. Peter sadly passed away last year. I had two other older brothers both of whom were at Tal Handaq, John and Jim. Both are still going strong. I've never been back to Malta since those heady days but I'm sure I'll get back there one day soon.
I have hundreds of colour slides dad took in Malta in my possession now and aim to digitise these over the coming months. There are plenty with Verdala featured and I'll post some of them here when I can. | |
| 555 | 23-07-2009 | Maxine | Holmwood | I was at Verdala '71-'75 I remember the hairy scary bus rides too.commander Bond was the headmaster and I started in Mrs. Ferugia-Bells class. Anyone else HATE the milk pyramids they tried to make us drink? | |
| 553 | 16-07-2009 | Jane | Crealock | I used to love the bus ride to school, the two buses always races and the oldest rickety one always won. | |
| 552 | 30-06-2009 | Ian | Buckley | I was a Verdala pupil for two and a half years in the mid 50s, top infants with Miss Batty (I think) and the first two years of the juniors. I remember being in the same class as Ian Barratt, whom I caught up with later at Gillingham Grammar School. I was a sea urchin in one of the pantomimes (Robinson Crusoe?). | |
| 551 | 23-06-2009 | Ric | Sinclair | I attended at Tal Handaq between 1962/63, my brother Stephen was at Verdala the same time. Had a friend from Verdala by the name of Patricia Cracknell who had a brother Paul there as well. Does anyone remember either Pat or Paul... | |
| 550 | 21-06-2009 | Bro. Martin | Azzopardi Sdc | I am the official archivist of the school and I've been doing this job for these last 10 years.So on behalf of our beloved Headmaster, Mr Stephen Cachia,I'd like to make an appeal to all those ex-teachers or ex-students of the Verdala Royal Navy School to send us a copy of wathever material they've got including mostly photos, certificates and megazines. We appreciate also a sample of the uniform weared in those times and desperatle looking for a super 8 film taken in those times. Saying all this I'd like to take the occasion to thank mostly Mrs Liz Mardel for her contribution to our Verdala School Archives and also to Miss Rita Debattista for encouraging me throughout all these years. Thanks in regards and hope to have a positive response. Peace be with everyone. | |
| 548 | 07-05-2009 | Rita | Debattista | During the reunion held in Malta I got to know that Professor Victor Griffiths was a student at the Royal Navy School Verdala. Therefore I invited him to the Open Day last March held to celebrate the official inauguration after the changes made to the site. Prof. Griffiths came to the school together with his wife. He was a student at Verdala between 1929 and 1932. Prof. Griffiths eventually made quite a name for himself in the medical field as he became an important surgeon. He passed on to me a photograph of a board that used to be hung in the school hall honouring those students who did well in the Oxford exams. I will be sending this photo to the webmaster together with a few photos taken together during the Open Day. There is a list of names clearly seen in this photograph so check whether you name is there if you happen to have been at Verdala in the early 30s.
Warm regards to all those I met during the reunion of 2005. Welcome to St Margaret College if you happen to be in Malta. | |
| 544 | 13-04-2009 | Sally | Hall | Just stumbled across this website which brought memories of Verdala flooding back ! I was in Mr Ross' class in '68-'69 and I lived in Lilac Flats in Sliema. I've never returned to Malta since then but would love to. I remember the swimming pool and the little enclosed garden that would sometimes be opened at playtimes. I would look for Ladybirds and insects. I was in St. Vincents 'cos I remember wearing a green sash. I also remember the school bus! It was great to see photos of others who attended and the playground. | |
| 543 | 12-04-2009 | May Rankin | Mahood | Hi, I am trying to trace an old photo of a nativity scene which was about 1951, can anyone help,
Regards,
May (Mahood) that was | |
| 542 | 08-04-2009 | Nathalie | Wilding | I attended Verdala between 1980 and 1983. Lived in Mosta.
Its so nice to see the pictures of the schoolon here. Would be nice to see some stuff from the 1980s on here. | |
| 541 | 27-03-2009 | Susan | Rooke | I attended Verdala between 1954 and 1956/57 the last 12 months being at Tal Handaq. Lived at Sliema and Balutta Bay. My father was in the Maltese Dockyard would be interested to know if anyone remembers me. I was friendly with a Susan Masters who had a sister called Mary. My brother Philip went to Tal Handaq. Great site. | |
| 539 | 14-03-2009 | Webmaster | Webmaster | **14th March 2009**
Someone (Joe Belgore?) is/was sending SPAM through the Roll Call contact link. Please ignore. DO NOT RESPOND - Email addresses have NOT been disclosed-they are hidden. Roll Call access has been suspended for a while. We have reported the messages to SOCA : Link: www.soca.gov.uk . You may continue to use this Guest Book.
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| 537 | 07-03-2009 | Julie | Lambert | Many thanks Alastair, for making this website possible for so many of us to communicate with each other from all corners of the globe and from many different walks of life. Good luck and God Bless | |
| 536 | 07-03-2009 | Webmaster | Webmaster | REMINDER: A Guest Book is for visitors to express their thoughts about the site or its subject. It's just like leaving a comment in a vistors book at a guest house or at an exhibition. If visitors do not consider the differences, the Guest Book could get filled with personal chit chat. Please remember to use the Forum. | |
| 535 | 07-03-2009 | Carl | Wood | Just wondrin' if anyone was in Miss Leslie's class in 1st Year Juniors in 1966. That makes you 50 or 51 now I guess.
Carl | |
| 534 | 07-03-2009 | Judy | Rogers Nee Walters | Just had an email from someone who saw my previous entry in the guest book and I'd like access to see what I wrote! She also saw our Verdala Brownies photo I'd posted with herself in it.[refer to ID 47 in the Guestbook] | |
| 533 | 02-03-2009 | Helen | Thompson | I was at Verdala 1963-1966 (age 7-10) and we lived at Carmen House in Kalkara. My Dad was at Bighi and my sister Pat went to Tal Handaq. Loved the little bottles of flavoured milk we used to get - banana especially. Oh, and I am front row, number three in the Brownies 1965/65 photo from the gallery!! Would love to her from anyone else was in that??? | |
| 532 | 02-03-2009 | Helen | Thompson | Would love to hear where two friends of mine are that used to come to birthday parties at my parents' house in Kalkara - Fiona Ure and Kyle Wallace. Also anyone who remembers me from 1963-1966 either from school or playing together. My sister Pat was at Tal Handaq. | |
| 531 | 26-02-2009 | Greg | Robb | Greg Robb (OS 1965 - 1967): seeing the new photographs prompts memories of the dining hall, with battered fish and shredded lettuce on Fridays; there was an option to buy a meal ticket (blue - 2/-) or a cheapo soup ticket (3d) via the NAAFI in Valletta! Commander Newbery's office was to the immediate left of the entrance door... | |
| 530 | 21-02-2009 | David | Young | I attended RNS Verdala 1956-1959 as a 9-11 year old. I remember the swimming, sailing and water sports and have a great love of the sea to this day.
My father had been in Malta 1941-42 and as a young Signalman had the job of raising the red flag over Valletta to signal an air raid.
He went back in 1950 and took me as a young 3 year old. He was away sweeping the Med of mines most of the time. One of my few memories is of falling and cutting my knee to the bone on the rocks at Manoel Island and Princess Elizabeth looking at it and almost passing out.
My memory of RNS Verdala was the Rabbit stews that put me off for life!
I have very few photos of my time in Malta after my Father inexplicably burnt most of them after my Mother died in the 60s.
Sorry I can't be at the reunion as I shall be in Madeira - funny how island life sticks with you!
Dave | |
| 529 | 21-02-2009 | David | Young | I attended RNS Verdala 1956-1959 as a 9-11 year old. I remember the swimming, sailing and water sports and have a great love of the sea to this day.
My father had been in Malta 1941-42 and as a young Signalman had the job of raising the red flag over Valletta to signal an air raid.
He went back in 1950 and took me as a young 3 year old. He was away sweeping the Med of mines most of the time. One of my few memories is of falling and cutting my knee to the bone on the rocks at Manoel Island and Princess Elizabeth looking at it and almost passing out.
My memory of RNS Verdala was the Rabbit stews that put me off for life!
I have very few photos of my time in Malta after my Father inexplicably burnt most of them after my Mother died in the 60s.
Sorry I can't be at the reunion as I shall be in Madeira - funny how island life sticks with you!
Dave | |
| 527 | 12-02-2009 | Philip | Tanti | Hi, i did not go to Verdala school. I was born in Malta and joined the Navy in 1970 at HMS St Angelo as a young junior naval air mechanic.Did visit Malta several times and detached to Hal Far and Luqa as well with 809 Nas operating Buccaneers.I do like the website,brings back warm memories of my childhood.Thank you
Phil | |
| 526 | 12-02-2009 | Rita | Debattista | Dear friends,
In the name of the headmaster Mr Stephen Cachia of St. Margaret College Verdala I would like to invite you ex students and teachers of the Royal Navy School Verdala for the Open Sunday on 15th March at our college from 9.00am to 5.00pm. There will be a lot of activities being organised all over the school with class displays and presentations in the school hall.
Anyone interested in visiting the College can contact me before. Maybe we can also decide on a particular time so that we can sort of have a mini reunion and take you all around as one of our special groups.
I am sure those of you who manage to come over will enjoy especially visiting the archive section that Mr Martin Azzopardi has managed to set up.
Warm regards to all especially to all those that I met during the 2005 reunion. Good thing you came over before the big changes happened. I still have a bit of nostalgia for the school as it was but the FTS has gone to great efforts to integrate the old with the new.
Sahha,
Rita DeBattista
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| 525 | 11-02-2009 | Sue | Adams | With all these new entries in the Guest book I am hopeful that the word is buzzing round far and wide about the Verdala reunion in March.Please do pass the word on and find out more on the website. | |
| 524 | 10-02-2009 | Jo | Mogridge Now Woodall | I went to Verdala from 1956-59 and now live in Malta. Any other ex-Verdalans here too? Please contact me | |
| 523 | 10-02-2009 | Carole | Edwards | Hi I was in Malta from around 1967 to about 1969 and went to Verdala School. I lived in River View Flats, Cuchcurie Street, Gzira. One of my brothers attended Verdala as well (Richard) at the same time. I remeber one time I made my first cake at home and bought it in to school for my teacher (cant remember her name but know that when we came back to England and I wrote to her I got a letter back from her husband to say she had died). My dad was on HMS Leyburn and he was CPO Don Edwards. My husband and I visit Malata every year and stay at the same place in St Julians every October to celebrate my birthday. Would like to communicate with anybody who can remember me. Have uploaded a photo of me on the 1960s photo gallery. | |
| 522 | 09-02-2009 | Geoffrey | Culbertson | I was at Verdala between 1958 & 1960 when aged 7 to 9. My father was a FAA officer based at Hal Far. I remember very little of the school apart from a memory of a vast flat square in the middle of the school buildings & the buses held together with string! I have only just found this site and have been searching the old photographs to see if I am in any of them, sadly not so, so far! | |
| 521 | 09-02-2009 | Rob | Taylor | I attended Verdala 1955 - 57, aged 6-8. Will be visiting Malta in June this year and wondering if anyone from my era will be there. We lived in Princess Flats, Msida, and whilst I have few memories of my schooling, I can clearly remember the bus trips - the sound of the diesel motors, and the whoop whoop whoop of the warships in the docks. I think the handsome transport ship the Forth was in dock most of the time I was there. Currently living in Australia as I became addicted to the outdoor lifestyle of beaches while in Malta | |
| 520 | 04-02-2009 | Sally | Skelton | I have just told my sister Judy Skelton about the website and she has found it as totally addictive as I have - AND she alerted me to the fact that Barry Fenton could only remember my name!! - I had seen the photo and failed even to recognise myself (but I suppose it is a bit small and indistinct) I am now going on a mad hunt turning everything upside down to find more pictures! | |
| 519 | 03-02-2009 | Judy | Skelton | I've only just heard about this website. I'm in one of the class photos (1BJ 1954) but sadly the only name I remember was that of our class teacher, Miss Farrugia. I would be happy to have my memory jogged by anyone else in the same class. | |
| 518 | 28-01-2009 | Webmaster | Webmaster | Verdala March 2009 Reunion: Go to http://www.verdala.com/2009reunion/ | |
| 517 | 24-01-2009 | Gary | Mifsud | Hi i am a present student at the Verdala School (now named "St. Margaret's College Boys' Secondary School" but we still call it Verdala).
When i was browsing through the internet i found this interesting site about the history of my school and i was very pleased to see those old photos of ex-students. The school is still the same and there are still many things and buildings left as you can see in the pictures of the new refurbished school.
I am writing also the presennt site of the school -- http://schoolnet.gov.mt/gdespottjl/default.html
Thanks for this interesting site
Gary Mifsud | |
| 516 | 16-01-2009 | Susan | Hickman | Does anyone remember me? I was at Verdala from 1956-57. I was in the school netball team and house/vice captain for Nelson.After leaving Verdala I then went on to Tal-Handaq. | |
| 515 | 11-01-2009 | Liz | Mardel (Miss McMeeking) | Well done, Julie! I keep going to the Forum hoping that someone will have knocked my name out of the 'Last Posts' column but no luck! Why are OVs so shy I wonder! - they never were 50 years ago!
Karen Knight - have you been to the 'New Style Gallery' 50s section? Lots of pictures of your contemporaries there but with about 1200 children at that time perhaps it's not surprising that you've not found pictures of any friends yet! But they keep being added so keep looking! Whose class were you in I wonder?
Yes, Happy New Year everyone and I look forward to seeing you at the reunion in March! | |
| 514 | 08-01-2009 | Julie | Lambert | Happy New Year to all ex Verdalans and please dont forget to look at messages and photos in the Forum and Gallery and add your comments especially if you recognise yourself or fellow schoolmates. And a special thankyou to Alastair, our Webmaster, a hard job,and he has had some stick, especially from me!, Thanks Alastair | |
| 513 | 31-12-2008 | Susan | Edmunds | At Verdala 1958-62. Remember singing "And Did Those Feet", as we called it, led by Mr Jenkins; sitting outside Mrs Farrugia's classroom up beside the bastion wall; singing on the bus back to Paceville after Brownies, indluding "Goodbye Cruel World" and "Walking Back to Happiness". Bliss. | |
| 512 | 28-12-2008 | Chris | Jenkins | Memories of toasting our lunchtime bread rolls on the fire in Mrs Murley's office!! | |
| 511 | 22-12-2008 | Betty | Murley | I was school secretary with Ken Sumnall as Head from about 1961 to 1964, and found them such wonderfully happy years I was deluded into going into teaching on return to UK. If that's not the hardest job in the world, it certainly was for me.... My husband was in the RAF at Floriana and we lived in Birzebbugia in paradise. Daughters went to Luqa and have been practising medicine for nearly thirty years now. | |
| 510 | 21-12-2008 | Karen | Knight | I have enjoyed looking at the website. I only wish there were more photos of the pupils - I attended Verdala 1958-1959. When we left Malta I was 8yrs old and remember the happy time spent there very well. | |
| 509 | 20-12-2008 | Bruce | Prior | I googled "Malta St Andrews Army School" and found this site. You seemed to want information about other (st andrews) military children's schools.
I attended St Andrews 1954/1955. My father was in the Navy (sub lieutenant on HMS Trenchant t-class submarine). I lived in Sliema and bussed daily to St Andrews. As far as I could tell The RN School was for "big kids" and "dockyard kids" whereas St Andrews was for "infants/little kids" and Army kids.
I do have some (only personal) scanned in photos if you wish me to upload them.
Best wishes | |
| 506 | 19-11-2008 | Liz | Mardel | Roger, someone else is looking for Daphne Cleeve as well! I've put a suggestion in the Forum - Questions and Answers section, Daphne Cleeve thread. Good hunting! | |
| 505 | 17-11-2008 | Roger | Lewis | I'm trying to renew aquaintance with Daphne Cleeve. We grew up together, but lost touch when I joined the Navy and she became a teacher - I thought with the Army in Germany, however as confirmed by your excellent website she taught navy children in Malta in the mid 60's while I was serving in the Far East.
If any of your readers are in touch with her I would be most grateful if they would forward my e address with a request that she contacts me. I believe she may possibly have returned to the Bristol area where we originally knew each other. I've tried friends united without success. Hope somebody can assist with my enquiry. Thank you. Roger. | |
| 503 | 03-11-2008 | Eileen | Atkins | My family arrived in Malta Feb. 1950 to join my father. Master at Arms Tommy Atkins, he was serving on H M S Liverpool. I was 10 years old and joined Verdala school, I dont remember much about it. Except Mr Benson joining the school.And making friends with Mavis Jones and Mabel Davies. I went on to Tal Handak in 1952.
We lived in Tarxien as it was called then.
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| 502 | 03-11-2008 | Lesley | Harvey | I attended Verdala in the early 50s from the age of 6 and we lived at 38 Marshall Court.Unfortunately I cannot remember names however I do remember the coronation party,the jelly fish along sliema front,watching my father playing waterpolo,sports days etc.My parents are no longer alive but I do have a photo album of our time in Malta.My fathers name was Arthur Harvey he was CPO. | |
| 500 | 25-09-2008 | Ian | Maule | Verdala class 4BJ 1962/63. Thanks for a wonderful web site. | |
| 499 | 18-09-2008 | Jim | Woodhams | I've heard today from Richard King that his father Graham King, who taught for many years at Verdala, died this morning (18 September 2008) after a short illness. He was 89. Richard wanted to let all Graham's former pupils know. Please contact me if you would like more information. | |
| 498 | 04-09-2008 | Liz | Mardel | Please just give us a nice big obvious 'Forum' button Alastair and we'll be off there to bandy the stories and reminiscences and leave the Guest Book for its proper function! | |
| 496 | 04-09-2008 | Webmaster | Webmaster | The final response to Julie Lambert's comment. A Forum function is for all to read and discussion ensues.
A Guest Book is for visitors to express their thoughts about the site or its subject. It's just like leaving a comment in a vistors book at a guest house or at an exhibition. If visitors do not consider the differences, the Guest Book could get filled with personal chit chat. My prior comments stand. If you don't like it - don't come back! [13 Sept 08:The last sentence has been reinserted at the request of Julie-the webmasters original comment was edited and toned down but Julie wishes the original statement to remain. It does not alter what should be placed in the Forum] | |
| 495 | 04-09-2008 | Julie | Lambert | Sorry Alistair, conversational material is better for people who are new to the website than using nothing at all.First point of contact and all that. A lot of people are not familiar with websites, and I would rather people communicated in volume and migrated to individual people by contact with sites like this than not have contact at all. Also not many people are happy to be contacted directly by e mail. Also not everyone will understand that they have to go thru Forum or even where it is to be located to get a reply, in reality being very happy to hear from people that they have known in the past, but not really sure what to do about it. Are you trying to ay that what you require from the Guest Book is..? - "Hello I was at Verdala 1959-64 with information that nobody should respond to apart from e mail? Other people also love to look at the replies and the happy memories given. Brilliant website Alistair but give us a bit of lee way, it wouldnt be a website without us! Relax the rules or I wont be back. Bet u dont print this! | |
| 494 | 04-09-2008 | Webmaster | Webmaster | The Guest Book is receiving a lot of "conversational" material. Please kindly use the Forum. A Guest Book is not intended to be a place for discussion/s. The "Email" facility is also there to communicate directly with specific individuals. | |
| 493 | 03-09-2008 | Julie | Lambert | For the few of us visiting Malta in the next few weeks, it seems like a meeting may well be set up for Sunday 5th Ocober, obviously at the "Magic Kiosk"! So far, there will be myself, Phill Rose and Tony Clark. Hope to hear from Heather Bauchope who appears to be there at the same time and maybe also Jo Moggridge. ...And Liz, give me a mobile number so that we can take a photo and send it to you! | |
| 491 | 02-09-2008 | David | Gerrard | For Andrew Rennie. If you are still having trouble finding Verdala on Friends Reunited,
search for Verdala Royal Naval School which is listed under UK Overseas.There are 517 members.
We Tal Handaqians had problems with our FR listing but persistent nagging at the Administrators by a certain baggy shorted ex Verdalian finally sorted it. | |
| 489 | 01-09-2008 | Julie | Lambert | As the Magic Kiosk seems to play a large part of the last few e mails, how about meeting here,say Monday 29th Sept or any date to suit yourselves. Time and date to be agreed and raise a glass to ex Verdalans and of course our Liz!I know Heather, Tony and Phill and myself are there so let me know | |
| 488 | 01-09-2008 | Phill | Rose | Remember the Kiosk very well, and the 7up floats.
There is a very good picture of it around, not sure if it is on this site or the Tal Handaq one, must try and find it again.
Roll on October 4th, though hope the Windsor Hotel is not as bad as some of the write ups I have seen since booking the holiday. | |
| 487 | 31-08-2008 | Heather | Bauchope Now Parker | Thanks Jo, didn't know that about the Magic Kiosk, although I preferred it as it was with the tables under the trees. When I was a regular visitor to the Kiosk 66-69 my favorite drink then was also 7up or Coke floats. In fact my friend and I would make our own, one of us would buy a 7up and ask for a glass, then the other would buy an ice cream then we would sit at the back and hope not to be seen and mix our own, that was as far as the pocket money stretched. I'll be in Malta from 22nd Sept till 7th Oct. | |
| 486 | 30-08-2008 | Liz | Mardel (Miss McMeeking) | Ho ho! What’s going on here, then, behind Miss’s back?! Yes Tony, there seem to be a whole lot of returnees making for the island next month don’t there! Are you going to pick a place and a couple of dates and times when anyone can turn up? (Would it be good if we could have little copies of the school badge made as lapel pins for recognition?) I’d love to be there but we’ve another mini-reunion in UK next month. Now it’s (Miss) Vera North’s turn to have a 90th birthday and she’s taking Ivy Jackson (Mrs Eaton) and me out for lunch! (And it's in the staff room so you can't come!!) Between them they were the Infants’ Head for over a third of the life of the school!
(Perhaps this conversation should migrate to the 'Reunion' thread in the Forum?!) | |
| 485 | 29-08-2008 | Tony | Clark | There would appear to be a mass exodus of ex Verdalans to Malta next month. I am also going over for the next two months.I wonder if this is a secret reunion in competition to Sue Adams beano next year? Trouble is a reunion would not be PUKKA with out Liz would it. Has anyone told her about it yet? | |
| 484 | 28-08-2008 | Jo | Mogridge Now Woodall | For all those returning to the Magic Kiosk - be aware, it's closing in December apparently(in its present state) and reopening as a little kiosk with lots of tables & chairs under the trees(as it was in the 50s/60s). My favourite was 7up float. Look forward to going back in September. What dates are you there Heather? | |
| 483 | 27-08-2008 | Heather | Bauchope Now Parker | I first discovered and wrote in the guest book back in April 05. I regularly read all the entries but unfortunately don't recognise any of the names, have just found and old school report from March 67 class 4C my form teacher was D A Ager, I only know that because of the signature not from memory. As I mentioned before my best friend was Eleanor Ross, (her father was deputy head) who sadly I lost contact with in 1975/6, the only other names I remember were a Danny Clarke and Angela Carter who came to my birthday party in 1967. I am going to Malta again this September with my husband as we do most years, still can't beat a cheese cake washed down with a fresh banana milkshake at the magic kiosk Sliema, can't wait!! | |
| 482 | 27-08-2008 | Tim | Wotton | Hello. I attended Verdala in 1968/69; my Father was a member of the Australian Trade Mission and we had American and British naval families among our friends. I can't recall any class mate names, but I was in Mr John Why's class. Looking at the aerial photos brought back fond(?) memories of scarred knees from playing soccer on that gravel sports field! My brothers (Gerard & Bernard) both attended Tal Handaq. I was reminiscing using Google Earth tonight, and found both the school ,and the house we lived in, in St Julians. Best wishes to all. | |
| 481 | 26-08-2008 | Ailsa | Annis (Laurie) | I was very interested to see the photos of Stephanie and Barry Freake in the new photo gallery, they were the first family we met on arrival in Malta in 1956. My parents were very friendly with theirs, and we all spent a lot of time together. | |
| 480 | 21-08-2008 | Jo | Mogridge | Hello Andrew - glad you've found this wonderful site. I too was in the same class as Anne Mintoff, along with Ann Grigg, Russell Winterbourne,& Peter Mulvaney/Mulvanah. Like you,I have very fond memories of my time at Verdala (& later Tal-Handaq)
I was there from 1956-59 and the rope climbing frames were my favourite and also playing Donkey against the classroom walls. You must go back!! | |
| 479 | 20-08-2008 | Liz | Mardel | Hello Julie - AAaahh just because a message doesn't show on here doesn't mean one hasn't gone!! Recently I've taken to clicking the 'E-mail' button and sending a little off-site message when people sign in. I put my oar in much too often on here and everyone must get fed up with it!
Anyway, very nicely expressed Julie,as Phill said (hi Phill!) | |
| 478 | 20-08-2008 | Phill | Rose | Very nicely said Julie, in particular about your father, think most on this site feel the same way. You girls have a way with words.
I returned for the re union bash in 2005, for the first time since 59, and really enjoyed it, so much so am going back again in October.
Andrew, couple of other comments about Ms. Rowe on the site, I was in her bad books a couple of times and sampled "the bat", & was at Verdala the same time as you
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| 477 | 19-08-2008 | Julie | Lambert | Hello Emma, I am sorry that no one seems to have answered your questions, very unusual for the stalwarts on this site! However I do remember you and your brother, and I have many photos on HMS Surprise where I had a certificate for meeting King Neptune! I hope you enjoy your holiday, the first time you have returned - I was a long time returning, being very afraid to spoil my memories, but to my surprise it enhanced all that had gone before. I return again in September and visit all my old haunts, as I am compelled to do each time, and find a different memory at each visit. I hope you find the same. My Father, who gave me this wonderful opportunity has now passed away, but I bless him for giving me the chance to be part of this wonderful island and to take it with me for the rest of my life. Enjoy your return Emma and never forget your part in this island. | |
| 476 | 19-08-2008 | Andrew | West | My goodness! Time is a healer for many things but it doesn't do any favours for the memory! Can't recall my class details except that I was there 1957 - 60 (then Tal Handaq till 61). I fell in love (briefly) with one young and very nice English teacher who liked my stories and improved my handwriting but I feel I must have rubbed most others up the wrong way. Badly. Constantly. Miss Rowe once tried to pick me up by my ear (Ow!) and Miss Horton's view of me - well provoked - was dimmer than a very dim glimmer: "West, you will never amount to more than a common labourer!!" (Some memories do not desert us, clearly)! I also fondly recall dropping large boulders over the wall to watch them tumble down the slope towards the goats below (my first caning, that) and learning to whistle with my fingers while waiting over successive days in the lunch queue. By the end of the week I had it off pat - can still do it .... Reading others' reminiscinces, more tidbits come back to me: the climbing frames; marbles games; drama productions; dockyard riots (we knew when they were likely to happen, since Anne Mintoff was also in our class) and those wheezing, shuddering school buses; Wolf Cubs ... I wasn't the most biddable pupil, I guess, but I do remember my time at Verdala pretty warmly. I just wish I could remember more of my fellow pupils - I'm sure they (you?) were all fine characters. :-) | |
| 475 | 19-08-2008 | Liz | Mardel | Hello Sue, I'll be glad of some company in the staffroom, I'm very outnumbered on here!
Have you seen the photo of Josephine among the reunion pictures?
Images from the 1970s era are very thin on the site - have you got any you could post? | |
| 474 | 10-08-2008 | Sue | Royds (Nee Grimes) | I taught at Verdala from Sept 1973-July 1976 when the school closed. Have recently been back to Malta but unfortunately didn't get to see Verdala although I did meet up with Josephine who was secretary there in my time. | |
| 473 | 26-07-2008 | Liz | Mardel/Miss McMeeking | Hello Andrew, just blame whoever was the first to register the school on Friendsre..! They registered it as "Verdala Royal Naval School" (fine!)"Verdala, VALLETTA (NOT!), Malta." Hope you have better luck than I had trying to register as a teacher! They would only add me as a pupil - eventually I gave up! | |
| 472 | 26-07-2008 | Andrew | Rennie | Hello,
I attended Verdala in the early fifties.
Couple of questions please: I am having trouble getting Friends Reunited to admit there was such a place as Verdala RNS, how do you input Verdala in Friends Reiunited?
They say they need the full address, does anyone know it?
Thanks
Andrew | |
| 471 | 21-07-2008 | Emma | Holland-Martin | I am about to come back to Malta having not returned since our father was C in C of the Med from 1961-64. We lived at Villa Portelli, and our father's ship was H.M.S. Surprise. Hence why I came across this website as I am trying to compile as much info as poss for when I come with my children in August. My brother Ben attended this school from Sept 61 aged 6-8 left April 64. Sadly I did not attend this school immediately as was sent to start with to the girls convent. I arrived probably around Sept 62 or early 63 when I was 9 and would have left same time as brother. I was in Nelson house and my brother was in Drake. I remember performing as a sugar plum fairy in the Nutcracker production you held probably Christmas 1963. | |
| 470 | 16-07-2008 | John | Thompson | I attended Verdala on two occasions; started school about 1950 returned to Doncaster late 52 then back to Verdala in 1954 – 1956. Migrated to Australia in December 1956. Have never forgotten my days at Verdala. Discovering the site last week, keep returning to look at pictures and day dreaming about my early childhood. I will write down my recollections and forward them. | |
| 469 | 05-07-2008 | Liz | Mardel | Alastair's splendid new Forum has now got its first posts. It's a bit hard on the eyes, but if this Old Bat can find out how it works, then anyone can! So post away and let's get some lively exchanges going before we all meet again at the reunion next year! | |
| 467 | 02-07-2008 | Alastair | Newman [Webmaster] | A new website section will be set up for the proposed reunion to avoid the Guest Book being populated with Reunion information. Sue Adams is very brave to volunteer and to take the lead role in organising the event. Christiane and Lin organised the last 2 brilliant gatherings - the webmaster simply arranged and published information via the website. Liz Mardell did some sterling work on the staff side for both events and promoted the event across the South Coast area. All feedback and requests for information regarding the proposed reunion should be directed to Sue and the webmaster will support Sue with the information flows. | |
| 466 | 02-07-2008 | Sue | Adams | Things are slowly beginning to move on the proposed reunion - have been in touch with Chris jenkins and Alastair to ask some basic questions. So watch this space for further developments! | |
| 465 | 02-07-2008 | Liz | Mardel | That would be brilliant, Sue, you're a star! | |
| 464 | 30-06-2008 | Sue | Adams | Having read the pleas for another reunion, I would be willing to organize one next year.As I live in Wellington Somerset it is highly likely that it would be held in the Taunton area and possibly at a local golf club in the summer.
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| 462 | 10-06-2008 | Nick | Lambert | I was at Verdala from 69-71 (the final 2 years before moving up to Tal Handaq). Nice to see a photo of Mr Sanderson he was my form teacher and i still have a signed book from him which he gave to me when i returned to England. | |
| 461 | 07-06-2008 | Alastair | Newman [Webmaster] | To UPLOAD Pictures please select "New Gallery" on the Main Page [top left] and select the appropriate UPLOAD section. A Verdala Tranformation section has been created which should be used to cover the recent development and upgrades to the school. After you have uploaded the pictures; you may View the pictures and add comments. | |
| 460 | 06-06-2008 | Liz | Mardel | I look forward to seeing them, Chris. Jane Banks took some excellent ones recently, I thought she was going to put them on here. (Weren't you Jane?!) | |
| 459 | 06-06-2008 | Chris | Jenkins | I have just returned from a business trip to Malta. I was able to visit Verdala, where I met Mr Vella, the Project Manager.
He told me the plan is for students to be back in the school in October. He also mentioned this site and was pleased we are all taking such an interest in the alma mater!
I took some photos, which I will upload asap | |
| 458 | 20-05-2008 | Alastair | Newman [Webmaster] | If someone wishes to organise a reunion they will be given the full support of the Verdala site. For the organiser, it is quite a commitment. Christiane Morris and Lin Holdsworth organised the last official reunions-the first UK and the return to Malta gathering. Both were excellent and very successful events. Let Alastair Newman know should you wish to make this commitment. Just select the Email link and inform your interest in becomming the Organiser. | |
| 457 | 20-05-2008 | Kate | Condie | I would also be interested in a reunion, my recolections of fellow school chums are not as vivid as some but the place itself holds memories that still make me smile. | |
| 456 | 16-05-2008 | Liz | Mardel | Snap, Jo! - We must have been writing those at the same moment! And I nearly mentioned Graham's exhibition!
Yes it is Julie (time for another reunion!) All we need is someone to organize it! I'm happy to add support and backup but am not efficient enough or young enough to take it on! Any volunteers??!! | |
| 455 | 16-05-2008 | Julie | Lambert | Many thanks Liz and Jo for the info on the NAAFI, as a child I just knew it was somewhere there but my Mum thought it was further away. What is it Jo about the place that is so imprinted in our memories? About time for another reunion I think! | |
| 454 | 16-05-2008 | Jo | Mogridge Now Woodall | The old NAAFI was housed in a building that is now an Arts Centre, called St James Cavalier Centre for Creativity, in Castille Square next to the Post Office. My husband Graham had an exhibition there last April/May. Nearby in Castille Place, is the Central Bank of Malta, which we knew as the Vernon Club in the 50s. I also return regularly and my husband is also amazed at my memory of the streets/shortcuts.
Great website! | |
| 453 | 16-05-2008 | Liz | Mardel | Many thanks, Julie! Must remember to get my elderly passengers to wave their hankies out of the car windows for you next Wednesday!!
The big NAAFI was in Castille Square, up a long flight of shallow steps inside the walls of St James' Cavallier. It's now a splendid Arts Centre! Is that the one you mean? | |
| 452 | 15-05-2008 | Julie | Lambert | For Liz, Only comments well deserved, I have looked at the Portsmouth webcam and will look for you next week when I am away from work. In spite of the disrupted childhood I can honestly say that this school(Verdala) gave me far more than the secondary school I returned to in the UK. I return regularly to Malta in eager pursuit of my childhood haunts, my husband is constantly amazed how much I remember but enjoys the memoriesI have, and he will even put up with my numerous car journeys that occur over both good and bad terrain to reach my objective! I would appreciate a definite location for the old NAAFI, I cant remember and my Mother is also unsure.
Also, sad to hear of Ken Radford's death, he was a lovely teacher, so condolences to Jo. X | |
| 451 | 11-05-2008 | Liz | Mardel | Goodness, Julie, that’s a nice little bouquet!! I just think that this site is such a brilliant idea of Alastair’s. You service children had such disrupted childhoods I’m sure this must restore a bit of continuity! (And I’m a very quizzy old bat and enjoy putting a spoke in!) Thanks for the link to the Visit Malta webcam (having trouble with the Flash Player but can’t wait to download it and see Grand Harbour!) Have you seen Portsmouth Harbour Eye, two views looking up from the harbour mouth? I’ll wave from the car at the Spinnaker Tower camera around 3.30 on Wednesdays!! | |
| 450 | 02-05-2008 | Jo | Mogridge Now Woodall | Sadly Ken Radford died just over 4 years ago - a good teacher and grandfather to my daughter | |
| 449 | 01-05-2008 | Julie | Lambert | For all of you who watch this site, and to Liz Mardel as a unique example of dedication,log on to www.visitmalta.com and click on the webcam where you will see different views of Grand Harbour, and if you are lucky you will see the noonday gun fire, followed by the Captain Morgan harbour tour passing the Barracca, and if very lucky you will see the flying boat take off. Regards to all classmates with Ken Radford 4AJ 1963/64 and I thank this school for giving me the best education and the best ethic in life I could ever have possibly had! | |
| 448 | 01-05-2008 | Catherine (Kate) | Condie | Thanks Jo and Steve, you have helped me greatly in my quest for the ultimate cheese cake, the search goes on! I will go to Sliema and check them out, and I will have to order them too, for a fair comparison : )
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| 447 | 27-04-2008 | Liz | Mardel | Philippa Curtis - yes of course, her name emerges through the mists of time! But the image that comes to mind is of a little girl with SHORT straight hair! Did she really have pigtails - they were too hot in Malta for most little girls! She must be in one of those pictures of the children on the climbing frame (were they really as miserable as they look, or was it just the sun in their eyes?!) You'll have to remind me which she is!
Have you found the old school magazines on the 'talhandaqnostalgia' website? David the webmaster has uploaded all the Verdala pages as well as Tal Handaq's and there's a bit about The Pied Piper to give your family a laugh! | |
| 446 | 27-04-2008 | Richard | Curtis | Liz, it's a privilege to contact you after all these years, particularly since you were one of the few teachers other than Mr Ross that I remember both as a name and a face - I'm sure my sister, Philippa, was in your class in 1958/59; fair-haired, with pigtails? We both live with our families in Johannesburg, South Africa. Sorry to hear that my old teacher has passed away - he was one of two teachers that really had a strong influence on me during my formative years (the other one much later when I was in my teens). And I did find the photos: my wife says I've filled out a bit since then! | |
| 445 | 22-04-2008 | Liz | Mardel (Miss McMeeking) | Yes, indeed I remember the Admiral Rat! Have you found your picture on here, Richard, both on stage and round behind the hall during the dress rehearsal?
Have a great holiday. Ignore all the new building covering the island and just enjoy all those old bastions!
(Mr) Peter Ross spent several years in Nepal but sadly died some time ago. | |
| 444 | 21-04-2008 | Richard | Curtis | I'm thinking about returning to Malta for a short holiday (after 50 years) and was amazed to find this intriguing site while browsing around. Well done, Webmaster! I was at Verdala 1957-1959, and finished off my primary school education in 4A1 with the incomparable Mr Ross. I remember names and faces quite well from those days: anyone who may be wondering who I was may remember me better as - the Admiral Rat! | |
| 443 | 19-04-2008 | Steve | Frost | if anyone is interested you can buy cheesecakes frozen and bake them yourself you can get them from the maltese movement in london just type in maltese culture movement.com to access their website you can also buy kinnie and cisk lager from them | |
| 442 | 18-04-2008 | Jo | Mogridge Now Woodall | Re cheesecakes - the BEST ones are in a tiny shop near the Strand end of Prince of Wales Rd (now called Manuel Dimech St) in Sliema. Yummy! | |
| 441 | 17-04-2008 | Geoffrey | Bamber | I remember the cheesecakes but in the 1950s the only place we ever had them was at Maltese weddings. They were superb.
Anyone got the recipe? | |
| 440 | 15-04-2008 | Liz | Mardel (Miss McMeeking) | This message should really be in the Staff Room section of the Forum but I can't get into it! Any former pupils who were Infants in the middle 50s and remember the Infants' Head Mrs Eaton may be interested to know that she's soon to celebrate her 90th birthday. She sends greetings and good wishes to all former Verdalans. | |
| 439 | 12-04-2008 | Catherine (Kate) | Condi | Gillian, I remember that orange drink so well, it is something I have never tasted since those days. Those wonderful cheesecakes are still sold today, best ones are at Valletta bus terminal. | |
| 438 | 08-04-2008 | Chris | Jenkins | Rosemary, I have sent you an e-mail. Just a warning that some providers automatically divert my mails to 'Junk Mail'. On occasions, hopefully not this one, some may say that's the best place. | |
| 437 | 29-03-2008 | Rosemary | Gledhill | The Gledhill children (Mike, Annette and Rosemary) were at Verdala from 1961 to mid-64. We are trying to collate our memories as we have only just discovered this site. I did my first and second year primary at Verdala, but only remember that I had Belinda Ouseby as a friend and Hilary Begg. I was in Nelson. | |
| 436 | 19-03-2008 | Lynne | Smith | I was there from 1966-1969, great to read this but dont recognise anyone here. I was in Daphne Cleeve's class when I left, my best friend was Jacqueline Miller who had a sister Elisabeth at the school, also my sisters Carol and Nicola were there too. Miss Cleeve was a young teacher and I remember her with fondness, I would love to hear news of her, she went to teach special needs children in Christchurch (south coast), or so my memory recalls. Would love to hear news of Jackie too, she moved to Scotland, or any of my classmates. I have some great memories of my time there and some dire photo's of me and my sisters in our uniforms. I'm looking forward to a weeks holiday in April back in Malta and want to see the school again, sounds like its changed a bit since I was there. | |
| 435 | 16-03-2008 | Reggie | Beames | I was at Verdala from 1954 to 1957. I sat the 11 plus in 1957 and went to Tal Handek after the summer holidays for a short time before returning to UK (Fife) in November 1957. We lived at 10 St Agatha St Sliema. Very interested to see the contribution form Susan Lewis nee Gill. I was at the same open air performance of the Merchant of Venice. I remember one of the leading ladies rushing on stage and then fainting in front of the audience. I remember some of my teachers, Miss Vasey and Miss Butters. There was also a Mrs Holland. Would be very pleased to hear from anybody who may remember me. My brother Patrick was also at the school.
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| 434 | 07-03-2008 | Simon | Pope | Was at Verdala as an infant, around 1970/71. Older brother Alan in juniors, father Stan Pope stationed at Dingli. Lived in Mayflower Mansions in Sleima. Thought the school boss was Cmdr Northey- Miss Mahoney was my teacher. Remember throwing all my marbles away on the courtyard, as was the custom, when we left. Does anybody recall those years? Get in touch if you like. | |
| 433 | 06-03-2008 | Ramon | Mallia | hi i was a studient in the prestent years (jr lyeum verdala) but i'm trying to find out what was the usage of that building under the football grounds it seems to me it is like a prison or maybe like a sort of base maybe. if someone can answer me back please email me thanks. :) | |
| 432 | 27-02-2008 | Gillian | Hudson | We lived in Malta 1960-1963.Our father was on HMS Surprise. We first lived in Cathedral Street and then at 5 Promenade Flats, Sliema.
I attended Verdala school along with my sister Karen, who was in the infants. I remember so many things about the school...the rope climbing frame, the swimming pool, playing hopscotch, kiss chase, the terrible school milk, sports days and the yellow school buses.
I cannot for the life of me, remember the names of any school friends, so if anyone remembers me, please get in touch.
Outside of school I remember a life full of adventure and fun, and sometimes getting into trouble! At the back of our flats there was some sort plantation where prickly pears were grown and all the kids around sneaked in there at some time or another to pick the pears. The owner used to go mad and chase us shaking his fist!
I remember a game similar to marbles, but played with ceramic beads, which we bought 10 for a penny.
Does anyone remember a sort of derelict theatre that was somewhere in Sliema? I remember playing there with friends, although we weren't supposed to. We used to climb up stairs to balconies that looked out over some sort of stage.
I loved going to Manoel Island where all the Naval families got together. I remember me and my sister taking our younger brother into the shaded toddler pool which was down a lot of steps, swimming out to the rafts, and watching people diving off the diving boards and wishing that I could do it too.
I rember going to the pictures and having drinks afterwards in the cafe in the square, either a lovely cold chocolate milkshake or an orange drink that I can't remember the name of. I remember delicious Maltese bread , some sort of cheese pastry that was sold from a street vendor who came outside our flats, and does anyone remember the lovely almond flavoured ice lollies....?
I look back on those days and realise how lucky we were to have lived on such a beautiful sunny island and to have attended such a good school as RNS Verdala.
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| 431 | 26-02-2008 | Karen | Hudson | Was at verdala 1960-1963 along with my sister Gillian
Verdala was my first ever school and so I was very young and do not remember anyone so I wonder if anyone remembers us? | |
| 430 | 26-02-2008 | Sue | Watts | I lived in Malta from 1961 to 1964 and went to a school, which I think was called Tigne.
I lived in Prince of Wales Road opposite the Sacred Heart Convent.
My father was in the Navy. I'm not sure if anyone from this site would remember Tigne but would love to hear from you if you do.
Sue | |
| 429 | 25-02-2008 | Frances | Skinner | was at verdala 1953 to 1956 remember boy called jack clayton who sat next to me in class .sat my 11 plus 1956 we took he exam in the canteen. | |
| 428 | 19-02-2008 | Steve | Frost | No Liz I haven't done that and also dont have access, thanks for your input and forgot one name phillip barton we were in mr Whys class and school footy team he gave mr why a leaving present of a cork screw which Mr Why still has today. | |
| 427 | 19-02-2008 | Liz | Mardel | Steve - have you done a 'Person' search on Friendsreunited? If you don't have access I could have a look for you but don't want to spend the time if you've already tried! | |
| 426 | 19-02-2008 | Steve | Frost | I posted somthing in the forum looking for old friends and since 2005 I had no response so here is another try I was at verdala 3 years 1967 to 1969 and would love to hear from the following graham fergusson, andrew scut, leslie dunbar, paul kennington, glen macklin. or perhaps someone will know them and let me know dunbar of course was leslie's name then now might be different. some of the best days of my life were spent at verdala thanks for this web site | |
| 425 | 11-02-2008 | Catherine (Kate) | Condie | I am in the picture of the class of 4AJ, 1959-1960, 2nd row in from the front, 2nd in from the left. May I say, coming from dreek and damp Scotland, those were just the best days of my life. | |
| 424 | 09-02-2008 | Colin | Searle | I was in Edward Savages photo of 4A and was standing next to him - I am Colin Searle! | |
| 423 | 04-02-2008 | Steve | Millin | This was an unexpected and first class find. I had a great time both at Verdala and Malta generally. 30 months of fun. | |
| 421 | 22-01-2008 | Susan | Dingle | iws in Malta from 1952 untill october 1956 we lived in Gzira nr Seilma my Dad was a cook in the navy his name was William John Dingle usually known as Joe my mums name was Christina known as Chris i rember being a snowflake i a school play & enjoying time on the climbing net at school if anyone remembers me please get in touch | |
| 418 | 13-01-2008 | Catherine (Kate) | Condie | I wonder if there is anyone who lived in Vittoriosa from 1958 to 1963 remembers the fun we used to have in the village? I remember there were other British families living there at that time. | |
| 417 | 13-01-2008 | Liz | Mardel / Miss McMeeking | I got Keith Allen's book out of the library. A colourful life - and an interesting bit about you, Rona! I have to admit, though, that I'm rather glad he wasn't 'one of mine' - I wouldn't like to think I was in any way responsible for a volume that has the 'F' word on every other line!! OK, I'm a killjoy - or just too old!!
Our 'conversations' would really be better in the Forum than the Guest Book, I reckon. I wish there was a heading for 'News of Former Verdalans' there. | |
| 416 | 12-01-2008 | Sue | Adams | I met up with Chris Jenkins recently(son of Mr.Jenkins-my teacher in Verdala).He told me about the Keith Allen book which I bought after seeing the connection With Rona Smith in this guest book. Rona and I are busy catching up after .....too many years! | |
| 415 | 10-01-2008 | Vivien | Skinner (Now Jones) | Amazing events - I checked into the website because my younger son was visiting Malta over Christmas and I wanted to tell him where I lived, went to school and so on, so that he could visit. Imagine my surprise and delight to discover that a number of you had heard my Radio 4 story 'Tomato Sauce' and were wondering if you knew the person who wrote it. Well, some of you must have given my dates at Verdala - 1954-1958 -I was 6 in 1954. I'm not so good at remembering names in spite of a vivid recall of events. My sister, Frances, was there too, but she went on to Tal Handaq at some point.We lived at 123 Prince of Wales Road in Sliema. There are six stories, so far,in my Malta Tales and since these days I'm making a late entry as a freelance writer, what I'd like to do is have them published as a group. Two have been published and one broadcast so far - I'd be happy to put them onto the Verdala website but some publishers won't put material into print if it's been on the web. Any ideas ? Any working or retired publishers out there ? I don't want to get into self-publishing because it doesn't count on your literary CV.
What amazing days there were !
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| 414 | 06-01-2008 | Liz | Mardel / Miss McMeeking | Vivian Jones (formerly Skinner) the elusive author of the 'Tomato Paste' story has now surfaced! She's lurking in Sue Lewis's section of the 'New Style Gallery' under the aerial view of Hal Far! | |
| 412 | 06-12-2007 | Ian | Benton | I was at Verdala as a pupil from 1950 to 1954. During that time my father Arthur Benton {now deceased} was head teacher of the Verdala section of the school. It think that that my mother who is still alive has photographs and school magazines of that era. I would gladly search for them and make them available if anyone is interested | |
| 411 | 04-12-2007 | Philip | Somerton | I was at Verdala 1967 age 7, my Father was in the navy. My elder sister also attended Verdala school.
I have visted malta a couple times in the last five years, and last year (2006) was able to find the old school. Unfortunetly they are pulling it down, and there were only a few building still left. | |
| 410 | 21-10-2007 | Greg | Robb | My sister and I attended RNS Verdala between 1865 and 1967. A lot of memories - especially some superb and inspiring teachers - Miss Mitchell, Mr Powell (who lent me one of his 45 rpm records), Mrs Faruggia and Mr Why - whi I remember cycling to school on a racing sports bike! Remember best friends Peter Jackson, Jonny Walters and Elozabeth Dunlop - was in love with her aged six! Best regards, Greg | |
| 408 | 12-10-2007 | Rona | O'connor (Smith) | Re. Keith Allen. Well obviously I had to rush out and buy the autobiography and yes there is a page about me! And very flattering too! So now I'm boring all my friends and colleagues with it. My teenage children are a bit embarrassed by my excitement, but hey ho! | |
| 407 | 10-10-2007 | Joanne | Mutter (Now Gollandeau) | Rona, even more of a claim to fame as it would appear, from mentions of a 'Rhona' Smith in his autobiography, that Keith Allen was very smitten by you. He speaks of Rhona's 'blue sash' as she was in the same house as him at school - the Blues. And yes, he is 54 years old so that fits too. | |
| 406 | 09-10-2007 | Liz | Mardel/Miss McMeeking | What a pity I haven't got a programme for 'Peter and the Wolf' or any subsequent Christmas shows that Keith Allen might have been in! - Has anyone else? Goodness, there's fame, Rona, if he came to your birthday party!!
Yes, Suzanne, Miss Rowe was a great character. remembered by staff as well as pupils. I gather that she eventually came back to UK and she died some years ago. | |
| 405 | 08-10-2007 | Rona | O'connor (Nee Smith) | Re. Keith Allen. I also am of the opinion, and have been for years, that he may well be the same Keith Allen who came to my beach birthday party (9th in 1962). I remember him quite clearly as being funny. The odd things I have read over the years, though not specifically the word Verdala have always lead me to believe it's the same chap. I have no memory of him after that, but he must be about my age-54 or he could be 53. | |
| 404 | 08-10-2007 | Suzanne | Lewis Nee Gill | I was at Verdala from 1954 - 56. Looking back now, I realise what a great start in education I had. Miss Rowe was a particularly strong influence, does anyone know what happened to her? She took us to an open air performance of The Merchant of Venice and Inever forgot it or her.
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| 403 | 04-10-2007 | Joanne | Mutter (Now Gollandeau) | Have just read the autobiolgraphy of Keith Allen (aca sheriff of Nottingham in BBC Robin Hood series). It would appear that he was a Verdalan between 1960 and 1963. Just before my time as I started at Verdala in 1964. Just wondered if anyone recalls him or has come to the same conclusion. Although he doesn't name Verdala in his book, it was a naval school he attended and much of the description fits. | |
| 401 | 13-09-2007 | May | Mahood | Hi,Just noticed that my email address is out of dateand would love to hear from anyone that remembers me from Verdala and then Tal Handaq from 1951-1954. We all loved our days spent on our Island in the Sun | |
| 400 | 11-09-2007 | Stephen | Wood | I was a pupil at Verdala between 1967 & 1970. I remember some of the the name that Brendan Ward posted. Lindsay Foot lived and his brother Steven lived behind us in Egmont Close. | |
| 399 | 03-09-2007 | Julie | Lambert | Sorry Rona that it wasnt you! Have posted it on the gallery (hope it loaded!) in the hope that someone recognises her, the only other person I could think of was Irene Liddle. From left to right are: Angela Geake, Jill Henwood, Julie Lambert (myself) and unknown! Please help! | |
| 398 | 01-09-2007 | Rona | O'connor | Hi Julie - yes that would be me! I also was a keen runner and long jumper. Loads of medals. I have been in correspondence with Mr Carrell which was great. He sent me a copy of the school mag with an article I had written about going to the races(!) I remember Mr Ousbey -daughter Belinda? Remember seeing him at the beach - Paradise Bay thinking crikey I thought teachers stayed at school all the time. My parents were in Xmas card contact with the Whys (Mr John and wife Dorothy "C minus, tone deaf" etched on my memory)until my parents died. great times. Must go back sometime. | |
| 397 | 31-08-2007 | Liz | Mardel | Go on Julie, post it on here in the New Style Gallery then we can all see it! | |
| 396 | 30-08-2007 | Julie | Lambert | Hi Rona, I am an avid reader of this very well conducted and subscribed to website and your name seemed to shout out to me as I read your comments! The Rona Smith I remember had long hair in a ponytail and was in the ballet class. If that was you then I have a picture of you on our flat roof performing with myself (Julie Lambert), Angela Geake and Jill Henwood. Let me know and I would be pleased to forward it! | |
| 395 | 29-08-2007 | Rona | Smith | Hi. I was at Verdala 1962-5 in the last years of my primary schooling and have many happy memories. I was actually there when I was two and have surprisingly clear memories of that time as well. If there is another reunion I would be interested in attending. I haven't been back since 1976 when my late parents Ron and Sarah Smith were on their last tour and have lived in Southampton since 1975. | |
| 394 | 28-08-2007 | Liz | Formerly Miss McMeeking | Well done Alexander! - I knew those brain cells wouldn't stay blank! I had a letter from Mr Ousbey just recently, very funny - must get his permission to post it on here! | |
| 393 | 27-08-2007 | Alexander | Birt | HI AFTER LIZ MARDEL GOT ON TO ME I HAVE SPOKEN TO ONE FORMER PUPIL A FEW TIMES & SENT HER SOME PHOTOS OF SENGLEA WERE WE STAYED AT THE SAME TIME 1957/1960 ALSO WHEN I LOOKED AT THE STAFF PHOTOS ONE FACE JUMPED OUT AT MR OUSBEY. I THINK MY CLASS WAS ON THE WEST SIDE I REMEMBER THAT IT ONLY HAD TWO WINDOWS TO THE FRONT, I ALSO REMEMBER I RAN IN THE ONE HUNDRED YARDS AT SPORTS DAY & CAME LAST.1 WAS 11 IN 1957 PASSED MY 11 PLUS & WENT TO TAL HANDAG INTO 1EG & THEN 2AM BEFORE LEAVING.ALEX | |
| 392 | 24-08-2007 | Liz | McMeeking (As Was) | What a vivid description, Helen, of your 'road to Damascus' experience all those years ago! - and how pleased Alma Batty would have been to know what a difference she made! | |
| 391 | 23-08-2007 | Helen | Chere (As Was) | Thank you for letting me know the news of Miss Batty.She was so significant to me of course, because she taught me to read. I can remember looking at the screen at the front of the hall when I first went to Verdala, covered in marks which were the words to our hymns and it seemed to me that all the other children could read them and knew what words to sing.(And until I saw the photographs in the Gallery here I had thought that the hall that my memory pictures so vast must have truly been huge to contain all the twelve hundred children,but now I understand that when I was sitting there I was, surely, only amongst my own single year group)But Miss Batty explained so clearly about the sounds that letters made that it seems like no time before I could read and sing properly, instead of miming the words. It was the phonic method, (I recognised it later) and she told us about the way that each letter had a sound, if you learnt them carefully you could read ANYTHING you wanted. We sat at our tables and said the sounds of the letters that she wrote, and built them into words, and so clearly I remember the story she told us to explain how 'policeman e' would stand at the end of words like 'bit', or 'mad', and all the vowels were so nervous that in their panic they would say their name instead of their sound; you would read 'bite' or 'made'. I remember sitting and listening and somehow knowing that she was giving me a key which would onlock a whole world.I'm sorry that I am too late to tell her. | |
| 390 | 23-08-2007 | Helen | Chere (As Was) | Liz Mardel has mentioned in the forum the riots in 1958 and was anyone there at the time. Curiously, my six year old memory has no record at all of being concerned about problems in those weeks coming home on the bus, I was probably so relieved that I'd found the right one, I didn't worry about stoning or going the long way round. But I certainly have a record of hearing a news item on the wireless ( I nearly wrote radio) which said there was rioting at the dockyard, which is where my father worked, and that it 'Had been set on fire'. I was terrified and pictured some dreadful conflagration, so I burst into tears when Daddy came home perfectly safe.'And what are you crying for?' 'Because I thought Daddy was going to die in the fire!' My mother hadn't realised that I had listened to the wireless report. So that was 1958? Well, well. | |
| 389 | 22-08-2007 | Liz | Mardel (McMeeking) | Hello there Pauline! Now how did I miss your message below ?! (perhaps because I’ve been away or perhaps because Verdala has somehow disappeared as my Home Page!)
Has anyone let you know that, yes, there is a Tal Handaq reunion coming up. It’s next month (Sat. Sept 22nd) at Warwick University. There’s a link to Tal H in the ‘Links’ section on our home page. It’s time we had another Verdala one as well if there’s anyone out there with the energy and experience to organise it! (Note to Alastair the Webmaster, what about a section of the Forum for suggestions?!)
You say that you have pictures of yourself as the princess, dancing (as guest artiste!) in ‘Jan and the Silver Planet’ in 1959. If you explore the ‘New Style Gallery’ from the link on the Home Page you’ll see that there are a couple of the pictures there! (And yes, I’ve been meaning to transfer the captions from the old ‘Gallery’ for yoinks!)
Good to hear from you, Pauline, and also to read your piece, Helen Chere. I know you’ll be sorry, Helen, to learn that (Miss) Alma Batty died in 2003. I put a little obituary in the ‘Ex-staff’ section of the Forum. There are also two pictures of her in recent years in the ‘Staff Room’ section. I shall tell her widower Brian to look at your entry – I’m sure he’ll be interested. I had a message from him only yesterday with the sad news that Alma’s (and my) friend (Miss) Joan Watson (Verdala staff 1954 – ’60) died on Sunday. I’ll try and get a little obituary from her brother to post into the Forum.
Note to Alexander Birt – It’s only us Old Bats who were staff who are allowed to have blank minds!! Get digging and I'm sure you’ll come up with something!!
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| 388 | 21-08-2007 | Helen | Chere | How lovely to find this Verdala site, full of people who share memories that in my blinkered way I've thought for fifty years were quite unique.
I came to Malta in 1956, five years old, from the quiet cool countryside of rural Hampshire, just three days before term started and so my Verdala years are vivid. Anyone who knew me then, in Miss Batty's class, might remember a tiny, painfully shy and anxious girl; and all my memories of school are coloured by the situations that frightened me; the vast playground; going down to the enormous bus park at the end of the day and would I find the right bus before it left without me (we lived at 2 Maryanne Flats, Fleet Street, Gzira then 58 Egmont Close, St Ignatius Junction, Sliema), the horrible milk, and I thought the rest of you LIKED it; would I manage to fix correctly not only my green sash but my tie as well, though we did all change from winter uniform to summer on the very day that the Navy 'went into whites'.
Can it be possible that Miss Batty sees this site? I am that child who, on the first day of school, waited and waited, to hear the headmaster read out my name, but never did, because it was pronounced unexpectedly, so as the hall became empty just quietly followed children into another class 'Do you have an extra one?' Miss Batty asked, and I felt mortified. And never spoke one word to her, being shy, for six weeks.
But I became rather good at marbles, hopscotch, hoola hoop, and I could make houses for fairies by covering little pits in the dust with tiny sticks for a roof, and by the time I left in 1959 I had determined that I would climb all the way up the rope net to the metal ridge, climb over it and down the other side. And I did; though I also remember a boy having a dreadful accident and being carried away on a stretcher, lots of blood and a teacher walking beside looking frightened and shocked.
How I did love swimming and the clear, clear water, Ghajn Tuffieha and Mx, though my father sometimes would have to carry me to the sea over a metre wide band of stranded jellyfish, and there were sea urchins, and mosquitoes at night so that we had to sleep and suffocate under ceiling nets and burn green spiral incense coils, and the shoats everywhere and the poor blindfolded horses walking all day round and round the irrigation wells.
It somehow seems very important that the palm tree is still there. | |
| 387 | 21-08-2007 | Alexander | Birt | went to verdala in 1957 .took my 11 plus & went on to tal handag don't remember much about school days minds a blank. | |
| 386 | 06-08-2007 | Pauline | Hargreaves (Now Mendez) | If Liz Mardel reads this please contact me. Would love to know if and when there is going to be another reunion for either Verdala or Tal'Handaq? If there is anyone out there who remembers me - Verdala in 1957 for a year - Miss Chadwick or Chapman? ( I think) was my teacher in the 4th form and Commander Law in 1DG in Tal'Handak followed by Miss Murphy in 2CG. Came home in 1960. Did ballet with Miss Rowe until I came home - last time at Verdala even tho I was at Tal'Handaq - seem to remember dancing as the lead in Princess of the Silver Planet lost in Space - have the photos to prove it somewhere!! Steve Martin sent in a photo of some boys outside a classroom - on some steps - I could swear that they were boys in my class of 1DG - I seem to recognise the boy with glasses - maybe called Glen Robinson and if I am not mistaken the blond boy on the steps is a Michael Collins? but I may be mistaken...Do let me know if someone reads this and can verify same. Have been back to Malta several times as I flew with BA for 13 years - in fact met Miss Jackie Yule on a flight returning to Malta having just got the MBE or OBE - whilst operating on the flight she was on. Was invited to Tal'Handaq for lunch and Mike Law - the then headmaster - came to the Phoenicia Hotel in a car to pick me. Happy memories... I am now in Northern Ireland running a Guesthouse on the seafront - check out the website www.hargreaveshouse.com | |
| 385 | 20-07-2007 | John | Hadley | The cub/scout troop Keith refers to was the Savoy Group and it gathered at the Holy Trinity Church in Sliema. I was both a cub and scout at the troop - in black and brown six during my time as a cub and then up into Wolf Patrol as a Scout. Wolf Patrol was an interesting because it was made up of boys who went to boarding school in the UK. We formed up only during school holidays - as a very new patrol we went off to a big scout jamboree at Takali and won the shield as the best patrol(I seem to remember is was blue with two scouts shaking hands). Not bad for a group that only became scounts just weeks before this camp. And, yes, Keith I remember you well - no bad after over 40 years. You would have been on Bus 38 whereas I was on No. 36. Also you played in the A team at football whereas I was in the B team. Happy days! | |
| 384 | 19-07-2007 | Keith | Wigglesworth | Nice to see Egmont Close mentioned..brings back memories of the bomb shelter by the football pitch, ghost stories, subbuteo, topo gigio and burning airfix planes flying from the verandahs, saturday morning matinees at the Majestic with a packet of twistees and a sunshine (weird orange drink) afterwards in the square. Haven't seen anyone mention the Villa Rosa Club with its pools, or the Marsa Club. Can anyone remember the name of the cub troop in Sliema that a lot of us belonged to in the mid 60's?? | |
| 383 | 18-07-2007 | barry | Fenton | I was at Verdala in two stints from 1948-1951 and 1952-1955 am in the Class V photo of 1954 top left I think. Sally Skelton is about the only name that I can remember pathetic isn't i lived in Vittoriosa and remember leaving early to get the bus on its way to kalkara creek before school | |
| 382 | 02-07-2007 | Geoff | Bamber | Re message from Tony Clark. Yes I was in the Dockyard Sea Scouts and sent you an email. If it did not go through you can contact me through the Roll Call. It would be nice to chat to you again. I think you were my Ptrol Leader. | |
| 381 | 27-06-2007 | David | Corcoran | Gutted! I have just got back from a holiday in Malta and discovered what you all already know - Verdala is being 'updated'. I now feel very sorry that I did not try to take a look earlier because now my sketchy memories will be all that remain! I made the visit with my wife and young son and was rather surprised that few of the locals had any idea where the old school was - even those living within 100 yards of it! In the end all I saw was the sad gates -all rusty and buckled. I really would love to see more high quality pictures if any exist, so that I can try to remember more. Following on from my last posting (11/04/07) I have been asked to submit any pictures I have from old school annuals. I will do this as soon as I purchase a scanner. Best wishes and regads to all who use this excellent website. | |
| 380 | 25-06-2007 | Lynn | Horsfall | Does anyone remember the 'Club' at the back of Egmont Close, in Sliema in the early 60's. Do you remember the Christmas parties there? The summer nights, with Bingo played on the tennis courts. Volare and Do Ya, Do Ya, Do Ya wana dance?, being played over and over. The 'Twist' and the glamourous twist dress! I know I went to Verdala but my memories lean more toward the after school fun. The Majestic cinema - I and a group of friends must of watched 'The Guns of Navarone' 10 times. And the milkshakes at the Cafe outside the Majestic - no chocolate milkshake has ever tasted so good. The kids of today don't no what they have missed. Happy Days. | |
| 379 | 23-06-2007 | Ric (Eric) | Sinclair | Does anyone remember Pat or Paul Cracknell, they would of been at Verdala in the early 60's ( 1962/63 ) ..I attended at Tal Handaq in 1962/63 before returning to Australia, my father ran the Australian Immigration Office in Valetta...Pat and I were good friends. | |
| 378 | 18-06-2007 | Tony | Clark | I agree with Liz my inbox is overflowing with E-mails from Ex Verdalans and Tal Handaq friends isnt it a small world on occasions. Lets try and add to the numbers by calling Geof Bamber. Were you also in the Sea Scouts in the early 50s and does any one know the whereabouts of Phillip Hannan? Incidently goats and shoats are still plentiful in the Chadwick Lake area. | |
| 377 | 01-06-2007 | Liz | Mardel | It's amazing how many former Verdalans pop up all over the Portsmouth area! (Well, not really very surprising I suppose!) Last night on coffee duty at Petersfield Arts and Crafts Society I found that my co-washer-upper was there in the 50s! Welcome here to the site when you find it Christine! | |
| 376 | 30-05-2007 | Maureen | Threlfall | I was on the Infant staff from 1963 to1966. [No EMAIL Address for this entry-Webmaster] | |
| 375 | 12-05-2007 | Brendan | Ward | Hi, i was at verdalla between 68 and 71 I can remember george Mgill lyndsay foot and martin camps. I lived in astor flats point street sliema and my brother peter was at tal han daq.
Great to see the response! | |
| 374 | 09-05-2007 | Iain | Smith | Was at Verdala from 1956 to 1959 and returned in 1961 to do the 11 plus in Mr Ousbey,s class. He is the teacher I remember above all others as a positive influence on me. I went on to Tal Handaq until 1967. My father taught technical subjects there. I remember being terrified of the awesome cimbing frame.I also remember the bus journeys from Paceville, in particular going through the docks area as the ships loaded up for the Suez crisis. What a lot of ships there were in all the creeks in those days. The people in bare feet, the numerous priets and nuns, the donkeys and shoats everywhere, the fireworks on feist days,the colour coded buses, cakes in the Cordina cafe, the blue sea ane the flowers in the spring. What a magical place! | |
| 373 | 01-05-2007 | Bob | Hide | I lived in Egmont Close between 1956-1962. My father was Shipping Master for Grand Harbour. Would love to know when the next reunion is. I have been back to Malta on many occasions and found it like home. After Verdale I went to Tal Handaq and then St Johns in Singapore. Despite haveing a great childhood I have found that has given me itchy feet and I haven't stopped moving since. I'm still in touch with some old chums but does anyone know where David Attard is ? | |
| 372 | 29-04-2007 | Alison | Howick | What a gem of a site! It has brought back so many memories. Found my beaming face on one of the photos of the recorder group. Also played the recorder in the play Peer Gynt. I've just been looking through my autograph book from my time at Verdala (approx 1959 to 1961) Have autographs from the following staff members - Miss Candy, B Eastland, J Pickett, R A Turley, J Pearse N Adams, S Horton. One of the friends I remember most is Gail Tucker (who went back to live in Great Ayton, Yorkshire) Recently went back to Malta and met up with the Maltese lady I was bridesmaid when I was 4! My two brothers Terry and Stephen Howick were also at Verdala. | |
| 371 | 27-04-2007 | Neil | George | I am making a radio programme for the BBC about the cold War and in particular Cmdr Brookes and his role in it. I believe he may have been working under cover in Malta for Naval Intelligence. I am very keen to find someone who worked with Cmdr Brookes in the 1950s and 60s to get a better picture of the man, and maybe what he was doing. I would be grateful for any help you can give.
Regards Neil George, BBC.
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| 370 | 26-04-2007 | Silvan | Spagnol | Mrs Banks, thanks for your photographs! As an ex-(maltese) verdala student, I am quite interested in what's happening on top of Margerita Hill! I cannot believe that Graham Woodall's wife was also a student at Verdala! Last month, I was at a school (not Verdala) activity which included a small talk by Mr. Woodall. He mentioned his wife's memories of Malta in his speech and I had no idea she was a Verdalan!!! | |
| 369 | 24-04-2007 | Jane | Banks Nee Stubbs | I have just returned from a holiday to Malta and have put afew words on the Forum about my visit to my old School Verdala.There are some photos to accompany the building update and some of the panorama of Malta taken from the School Hall ROOF ! If anyone wants to see more then I will gladly send them ,if you get in touch .
Whilst I was there we visited The ST.James Cavalier Centre for Art and Creativity in Valletta ,to see Graham Woodall's Exhibition called 'Besieged'.Graham has stirred Maltese emotions up with this fasinating and very interesting subject at how the new buildings sprouting up everywhere are either good or bad for Malta ! I must add that Graham's wife is Jo (nee Mogridge) so the Verdala connection is very valid for this Guestbook. The exhibition is on until 14th May ,so please go looksee if you are in Malta,It's worth a visit and is Free ! The St.James Cavalier is in what was the old NAAFI by The Auberge, if it looks familiar to anyone who was at Verdala in the 50's.
My Dad was stationed at Dingli and we lived in Egmont Close Sliema 55 to 58, which are now being rebuilt as Luxury apartments! Regards Jane Banks | |
| 368 | 20-04-2007 | Lynn | Horsfall | I was at Verdala between 1960 until 1963. Used to live and play around Egmont Close. Does anyone remember a teacher called Miss Candy or was it Candey? Dad was Joe or Rolly - Fitter electrical. Lots of good memories of these happy years, although have forgot names of people I shared them with. | |
| 367 | 11-04-2007 | David | Corcoran | I was at Verdala for a very short length of time - Sept 75 to July 76 (just as the school closed). My memory of my stay is sketchy at the best of times but I am very keen to learn more. I would love to get in touch with any of you out there who would have been at Verdala at what I understand were the few years before the British left Malta. I am lucky enough to still have a copy of the last Verdala school booklet and that is about it! There are a number of pictures in it; however, the quality is not great. My father had several tours of duty in Malta and so I do have lots of other memories to share with anyone who might be interested! | |
| 366 | 05-04-2007 | Graeme | Paxton | Hi I WAS AT VERDALA FROM JUNE 71 T0 73/74 AND HAD A GREAT TIME THERE I WAS VICE CAPTAIN OF HAWKINS HOUSE .I was always good at sports all round person.MY sister donna was also at the school.I remember everytime we played rounders I would always try and hit for the drive way down to the entrance gate.I remember commander bond being the headmaster.I cant believe when I clicked on to see the show that had susan underwood in I was also in that show.They were the good old days | |
| 365 | 21-03-2007 | Daphne | Wye | Hi everyone,I was at Verdala 1954/56. we lived in Senglea , Two gates street.Dad was on the Surprise.
We returned again in 1958/61 where I went to tal-handaq. My sister Rosina was at Verdala both times.She was in the brownies and the school quior.
Such lovely times, although it was all taken for granted. | |
| 363 | 10-03-2007 | Joyce | Vose | Moved to Malta in 1949 and attended VERDALA from aged 5 in August 1950. I just cannot remember anything!! Can anyone enligten me?
We lived in St. Catharine's Street, Birzebbuga. | |
| 362 | 04-03-2007 | Geoffrey | Bamber | When I started at Verdala in 1951 at the age of 8 it struck me as odd that the Infant classes were conducted in a prison building complete with bars on the windows, a wall round the yard and big heavy gates. We of course were not allowed in there to explore. There was a small boy who kept running out of class necessitating a playground search by the teachers. To solve that problem they decided to close the gates until he settled down several weeks later. I wonder if you were that boy Ken? | |
| 361 | 18-02-2007 | Ken | Okines | I have vivid memories of starting school in 1951 at the age of five, when my father was on HMS Chequers, including my fear of getting on the wrong school bus which led me one day to walk home to Valletta where my anxious mother's anger turned to a sort of admiration for my sense of direction when she found out it was true. I also recall a gentle man in the school grounds who told me he was in jug. Perhaps he had been delegated to ensure I got on the bus in future and thought it would take my mind off the travelling!
I was delighted to find this web site and especially to see the photos from the 50's. | |
| 360 | 14-02-2007 | Stephanie | Elgie | I am Ruth's sister and we lived in Malta from 1957 until 1960. What a wonderful 3 years we spent out there. I don't remember much about my school days but do remember swimming off Bighi rocks and all the sandy beaches that we went to. I also remember many of those people but again not so from school. I keep in touch with Sue (nee Waugh) and look forward to seeing her in a few weeks time. I would love to hear from anyone out there that might remember me and can shed light on our school days. A second email address for me (work) is stephanie.bennett749@mod.uk | |
| 359 | 09-02-2007 | Ruth | Elgie | I attended Verdala about 1957 I think - then went on to Tal Handak. We lived in Kalkara as my Dad was Jack Elgie and was a Sick Berth CPO in Bighi hospital. We used to do loads of swimming in Bighi on the rocks in the hospital grounds so if anyone remembers us would love to hear from you.
I live in Lincolnshire now but my parents are still in the 'land of the living' and live in Gosport. My sister Stephanie is in Wiltshire. | |
| 358 | 08-02-2007 | Sue | Shaw (Nee Waugh) | I attended Verdala School from Sept 1958, completed my 11+ and then went onto Tal Handak in Sept 1960 for one term. My Dad (Doug)was a SBCPO based at RNH Bighi and we lived in Watermill Street, Kalkara. This site has brought back many wonderful memories of what was the happiest time of my childhood. In the Gallery photo of Roy Jenkins Class 4AJ I am the little blonde head poking out from behind the others, just next to Roy. My family and I emigrated to Australia in 1965 but I have stayed in touch with my 'best friend' Steph Elgie from Malta days. My husband and I will be visiting the UK and Malta in a couple of weeks time - arriving Malta on 20 March and staying at the Victoria Hotel in Sliema. I would love to see my old school(s) again, and if by chance there is anyone who remembers me perhaps we could make contact. | |
| 357 | 06-02-2007 | Anthony | Curtin | Visited Verdala recently and was delighted to see that it was still there. Was there between 1966 and 1968 and can also remember the water bombs on the buses. What fun!! Having looked at the gallery was surprised to find a photograph of myself and my twin brother Patrick, in the 1966-67 cubs. I was in the front row number 4 and Patrick was in BD number 2. Would love to hear from anyone that can remember us or our elder brother Brendan. | |
| 356 | 30-01-2007 | Michael | Ferguson | I am visiting Malta next month for the first time since 1965. Where actually is Verdala ? | |
| 355 | 25-01-2007 | Andy | Pope | Just been reading through the "Forum" (quiet day at work) and have read Lyndsey's comments about the school buses being stoned. I don't remember that but I do remember that, on the last day of term, we used to throw water bombs at the other buses if we passed them. The drivers were maniacs!!! | |
| 354 | 24-01-2007 | Andy | Pope | Have just spent a very enjoyable half hour showing my 16 year old daughter where her Dad went to school between 1965 & 1968. Mr King was my final teacher
Many thanks to those who have posted photos, really interesting. I'll have to look out some of mine
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| 353 | 15-01-2007 | Alasdair | Soutar | My sister Caroline's posting of yesterday refers. I also remember the gold stars awarded for stories (Miss Todd's class), the swimming pool with the floats for learners and the room where films were shown. I confess to chasing lizards to see if they "lost" their tails if you caught them - they did - and the aniseed smell of a plant with a bright green stem. I also remember taking sandwiches in a plastic box for lunch to eat in the dining room, football, of course, and the climbing nets at the gate. Marbles were a big part of life in the school - who remembers "once out of one from the gutter"? Happy days indeed. | |
| 351 | 14-01-2007 | David | Alexander | hi there I was in Malta with my Father,he was in the RN and in charge of Qrendi Mine Depot.I used to attend Tal Handaq this was in the early 60's,I am looking for some guy called Archie Caunter.Our School song was as follows "Benbow Collingwood,Briar and Blake,wish I could get all the words | |
| 350 | 14-01-2007 | Caroline | Nee Soutar | My brothers Norman, Alasdair an I went to Verdala between '68 and '70. Our father was an RN doctor and out Mum was the schoolmatron at Tal Handaq.
Altough I was only four when we came to Malta, some memories are pretty clear. We lived in Balzan and waited for the bus for school at the gates of San Anton Palace. I remember horrible flavoured milk in pyramid shaped cartons. The well in the play ground. The wooden pushchairs and huge climbing frame.At the bus park we sometimes bought sugared nuts in long cones that always tasted far worse than they looked.
I cannot remember any school friends but I do remember Norman and I teasing Alasdair about two girls in his class April Baldwin and Vula Alder(?).
My parents and I visited Malta in 1999 the school seemed so much smaller. We used to swim at Kalifrana; Dad used to make us swim to the raft,Happy days | |
| 349 | 10-01-2007 | David | Gerrard | Greetings Verdalians,
I have just set up a new photo website for Tal Handaq at www.talhandaqnostalgia.org .
As many of us belonged to both schools. Cheers DMG
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| 348 | 06-12-2006 | Liz | Mardel (Miss McMeeking) | Hello Susan - I've put a response to your message in the Forum - Questions and Answers. | |
| 347 | 05-12-2006 | Susan Lewis | Nee Reed | Attended Verdala 1950-1953. Somehow it was very satisfying on our visit last year, to see the origins of so many good memories. For those of you who haven't yet been back or attended a reunion I recommend that you try it.
Thanks to the organiser/s. | |
| 346 | 27-11-2006 | Tony | Foote | Hi, my name is Tony Foote.
I have just discovered the site and it brings back fond memories.
I was at Verdala from 1955-1958, age 6-9. I cannot remember any names but remember having a class teacher who lost her husband to a swimming accident.
I was also one of the 40 thieves in Ali Baba in 1957.
Will there be another reunion? and when, I would like to visit Malta next year.
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| 345 | 26-11-2006 | Mark (Fred) | Dawson | Verdala 67'-70'. Loved Verdala for its sports; footy, cricket swimmimg and athletics. Which played its part when I joined the RAF in 78' and I received my colours representing the RAF 1st XI at both cricket and football. Loved pottery class and history; Mr Sanderson was my last teacher in class 4B 1970(Malayian blow-pipes & other such exotica). Kiss chase(loved catching a sleazy chick called Wendy....) Whacky Bus races, No 33 to Balutta Bay/Spinola-driver called Sunny/Stockings? Fighting and racing on the rope climbers. Chucking schoolbag (small old style suit-case)down the drive. Winding-up Mr Why in music lessons-too easy. Mates Nick Emmence, Huw Cummings and loads more, Kim and Nigel (All our Dads were in the Navy). Swimming at Tigne, rafts, diving boards,fizzy pop & lollies. Sea urchins and needles in foot. Jelly Fish stings, Tar on rocks and feet. Hiding Miss Dickinson's chalk and blackboard rubber. Ah memories in a kid's care free happy go-lucky world that was Malta. | |
| 344 | 21-11-2006 | Julia | Walker | Hi Everyone, this is Julia. I was at Verdala from 1999-2002, grades 6 through 8. Unfourtunately I had to leave Verdala and go back to America to start High School. I had classes with Mrs. Zammit for math, Ms. Agius for English, Mr. Buttigieg for history, Ms. Kirkstadt also for math, Mr. Simpson for music (learned to play guitar in his class), Mr. Cassar for Art, Ms. Sanger for P.E., Ms. Pandyova for science, and Ms. Gera, also for P.E. I miss you all, and thanks for all your help and guidance.
I lived in Mellieha and I remember taking a 45 min bus ride to get to Verdala everyday, depending on traffic. Martin was the bus driver. I recently visited Verdala this summer and I bumped into Mr. Pleasance. Everything looked the same, with some minor changes. It brought back so many nice memories. Well I hope some of you remember me. Class of 2006!!!!! | |
| 342 | 20-11-2006 | Mike | Atkinson | I was very sorry to read of Bert Powell's death. I was at the school - and taught by him - during 1968/9, and was a friend of his son, who was one of my contemporaries. My parents and the Powells became friends, and we visited his home several times.
He was a kind man who, I'm sure, will be missed by his family, to who I send condolences.
Mike Atkinson | |
| 341 | 20-11-2006 | Julie | Lambert (Now Margarson) | Hi Everyone
I was back in Malta in October and could see the construction crane over Verdala from Valletta. This time I didnt get chance to go to the school, although I knew that renovation was to commence during the summer.
We all love our memories, and in 2005 when I re visited Verdala, it was one of the best moments of my life, but remember everyone that we cannot expect the place to remain as a shrine to us all for our treasured memories. The place is now a very smart and established school and they do deserve to do what they think is best for the place. I hope that the Palm Tree, so visible on the horizon will be left, and also the dome, but time doesnt stand still just to humour us previous attendees! And by the way Chris (Jenkins) I was in your 4AJ class conducted by Mr Radford, and I too also have my class reports for that year! | |
| 340 | 19-11-2006 | Liz | Mardel (Miss McMeeking) | Hello Chris, Silvan (how did I miss your posts here?!) and everyone else!
I was also aghast to see Chris's photos, linked from the home page. I wrote a bit about it yesterday in the 'Questions and Answers' in the FORUM (link in the horizontal band on the Home Page) in reply to 'Matthew'. I know that one Old Verdalan (Penny Tucker) is coming over from Oz next June looking forward to visiting the school - thank goodness for your warnings!
Perhaps the Forum would be a good place to continue this conversation! What about a special heading, Alastair, Mr Webmaster?!
[Link to Forum discussion board on subject] | |
| 339 | 18-11-2006 | Silvan | Spagnol | Hi! I am an ex-Verdala student (1998-2003). I found your site by chance! I would like to congratulate the web-master for preserving such memories. I've looked through the photographs and I recognised practically every corner since there were no drastic changes over the years.
I can understand your concern about the demolition of certain parts of the school. I also feel nostalgic (even though I've been away for only 3 years!) when I think about 'old' Verdala. But on the other hand I am totally aware of the need of major changes in Verdala. As a student there, I felt that the school infrastructure lacked certain features which make it inadequate for the Third Millenium.
However, looking on the bright side of life...the 4 colonial blocks will be restored and preserved for us all (together with the meomories associated with them)
Well done once again! | |
| 338 | 16-11-2006 | Chris | Jenkins | Ladies and Gentlemen,
I was in Malta on business last week and took time to go to have a look at Verdala. I could not believe my eyes. The place is a giant building site. One of the classrooms on the top floor of the block next to the NE driveway has obvioulsy had a fire recently.
If I understood the 'Planning Permission' notice fixed to the side of the old well, the work is on reconstruction (the Nissan-type buildings and the Infants block have been pulled down) and renovation (the original 1906 blocks). I hope I have got that right!
I did take a load of photographs and would like to download a few. | |
| 337 | 09-11-2006 | Alan | Smith | By chance found this wonderful site that brings back so many memories of our stay in Malta. I visited Verdala from 1960 to 1962. I have to admit that I remember more from our private life in Malta than I do from the school. I´ve only got one picture of me in school uniform, but looking through the site does bring back even a few school memories. | |
| 336 | 29-10-2006 | Andrew | Pope | I was at Verdala from 1965 to 1968. I remember John Hadley's sister Katie. My teacher in my last year was Mr King.
I remember being the Policeman in a school play about Viking treasure.
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| 335 | 23-10-2006 | Julian | Hayward | Like Vincent (posted below), I haven't been to the site for a while and could not attend the reunion of last year. Here's hoping for another reunion. | |
| 334 | 20-10-2006 | John | Hadley | Whilst it is always sad to read about the premature passing of a former pupil, David Russell’s message concerning Mike Farge does raise an interesting observation. Like Mike I also attended the Royal Hospital School after I left Verdala, as did a number of others. In my year I went with one other – a Mike Verney I seem to remember who I see has left a message below – though I knew of others in years above and below me. My point in raising this is that as Service families we were all accustomed to moving every two-to-three years – it coincided with an era of UK global military retreat – which made for a very interesting lifestyle for us kids as our parents went from one posting to another. Malta was a good posting - Verdala was my fifth primary school – as were others. My first primary school was the Royal Naval School at Sembawang (Singapore) and I suspect there are other former Verdala pupils (and possibly staff) who attended there also at some point. For those ex-pupils of Singapore there is a good site at http://geocities.com/derektait/sembawang.html which contains an interesting collection of pictures from the 1950s-through-to-the-1970s with links to the Kebunteh Naval School in Malaya (Derek Tail who runs this site has written a book about his childhood experiences.) No doubt there were other naval schools dotted around the world which I am sure others can point to.
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| 333 | 07-10-2006 | Steven | Kimberley | I was attending Verdala from late 1958 until early '61, and living in Birzebugia. My Dad was in the Fleet Air Arm at Kalafrana. My memories of school days at Verdala are rather vague and I dont recognize any of the names in the guest book or roll call. The only person whose name I remember was one Lindy Jones, who was also living in Birzebugia around '59-60 but who does not appear to be listed here. If anyone knows of her, pls let me know. Another name I remember was my teacher for one year, Miss Batty, who is again not listed. I am now 54 & semi-retired, living in Cyprus. | |
| 332 | 22-09-2006 | David | Russell | My Father was Fleet Air Arm, stationed at Hal Far and Kalafrana (1951-53). We lived at Birzebuggia and I actually went to the RAF Schools at Safi and Luqa (1952-53)because there were not enough places at Verdala at the time.
Unfortunately, I have sad news of a former pupil of Verdala (1955-58), Michael Douglas (Mike) Farge who was later to become my best friend during our five years at the Royal Hospital School, Holbrook, Suffolk (1958-63)after he left Verdala.
Mike had spent his whole working life in Civil Aviation and was at the very peak of a glittering career which spanned more than 40 years and culminated in him being appointed Chief Executive of an Aircraft Engineering Company and Corporate Jet Aircraft Operator based at Southampton International Airport in the UK.
Mike had recently been diagnosed with leukaemia and sadly, after a valiant battle with the illness, he died suddenly on 30th August 2006, aged 59.
I wonder if anyone has memories of Mike at Verdala between 1955-1958, as I am sure these would be of interest to his family. He leaves his wife and one grown-up son and will be greatly missed by all those who knew him.
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| 331 | 17-09-2006 | Peter | Hume | I attended Verdala between 1953-1955.My father was on HMS Bermuda, and we lived in a flat very close to Marshall Court at Sliema. | |
| 330 | 30-08-2006 | Louise | Sandy (Was Day) | I attended Verdala for a few months up to Christmas 1971 when we were all 'chucked out'. I wish I could remember more about my time there but I do remember the swimming pool and the rope frame. | |
| 329 | 03-08-2006 | Cherie | Tipton | I went to verdala 1967-68 for third grade, my teacher was Mr. Powell. I know his son was in my class, and my friend was Joanne. I loved living in Malta for that year while my father who was a History Professor did his research on the Knights of Malta. I remember the bowling alley I believe it was in valetta, that all the sailors would frequent. My brother and I got to tour a lot of navy ships by becoming friends of the sailors. I also remember milk being brought to our classrooms every day for a snack which I believe was goat milk and it was flavored and colored Don't think I would like to drink that ever again. Also remember being afraid of the headmaster, cause I didn't want to be hit with the cane. Looked very painful.
I remember seeing someone get hit across the back of the legs, and I was sure I would be good my entire time there after that. I didn't want any part of that. Also remember recorder class. and the ropes. Also a swimming pool which wasn't very deep. and sewing class where we made this little felt doll that held needles and pins. Wow. such fun times. I would love to visit Malta again someday. My brother has been back with his family. Said it's quite a tourist place now. Still would be fun to see our old flat. and ride the bus. Remember the bus only cost 1/2 penny. and the 1/2 penny was the largest coin.
t | |
| 328 | 03-08-2006 | Richard [ Dick ] | Adams | So many good memories from just looking through the site,i am even on a photo in the gallery, that was a big shock, iwas in MALTA from 55/59 lived in SENGLEA my sister CATH ADAMS visets malta each year on holiday, i cant ,i am sorry to say as i am now disabled, and short of the old ready,s but iam always trolling through the site to see if i can remember anyone, IF YOU DO REMEMBER ME please drop me a line, i would love it,MANY GOOD WISHES TO YOU ALL, DICK ADAMS | |
| 327 | 11-07-2006 | Christine | Carroll | So many memories coame flooding back when i found this site!!! I attended 58-61 and was in Miss Candy's class when i left.I lived in Silema Trafalgar navy flats with my two brothers John and Robert and sister Maureen.My Dad was based at fort Angelo.I can remember playing with Susan Thompson(i think that was her surname)and Pauline Fenton.We moved back to Liverpool in 61 and i have'nt been further a field since.I've been back to Malta a few times but cannot find the school or where i lived so if anyone could jog my ageing memory i'd be grateful. Please feel free to get in touch with me if you remember me or my family. | |
| 326 | 09-07-2006 | Lindsay | McNeil | What a fab web site. I attended Verdala from 1958 to 1961 when I sat my 11 plus and went to Tal Handaq Sept 1961. We returned to England January 1962 my father was in the navy and I can remember him working at the Naval base in Valletta. I have sister 2 years older than me her name is Sandra and a sister 4 years younger her name is Janine. I was a cat in Peter and the Wolf and remember going to the pictures to see Princess Margaret's wedding, and of course I remember the bus rides to and from school. Oh how I wish I could remember more. I have been in contact with Miss Meeking and do remember Miss Rowe, ballet classes and recorder classes. My mother died in 1965 and I do not have any photos of these days. If anyone remembers our family it would be lovely to hear from you. | |
| 325 | 04-07-2006 | Mary | Carter (Nee Furness) | I attended Verdala from 1955 to 1958 and remember some very happy times there. My brother John was also there. One day l was very brave and nervous going to the Headmaster asking if we could roller skate during lunch time. Does anyone remember taking part in that activity? My family lived in Sliema. I have been back many times living down in memory lane. I missed the Reunion in 2005. Hope there will be another one soon. | |
| 324 | 23-06-2006 | Geoffrey | Bamber | Memories of Verdala 1951/4. This was the only school I ever attended where you could find cartridge cases and dud bullets in the grounds. The terrace below the Hall had been used as a range during the war and finds were a common occurence. In his history of the school the Headmaster makes mention of gardening being encouraged. Every House had its plot, mine was on the left as you come up the driveway. You bet we were enthusiastic about gardening but it had nothing to do with plants. He had given us licence to turn over large areas in our hunt for ammunition and, during Activity Periods, the tools to do so! Gardening continued through all breaks using home made picks made out of conduit tubing and steel spikes. I bet he was proud of our industry - if only he had known our motivation. | |
| 323 | 19-06-2006 | Pauline | Morris | I forget to say my maiden name was Means. | |
| 322 | 19-06-2006 | Pauline | Morris | Have just found this site and think its great. I attended Verdala 65-67 aged 9-11. I lived in Kalkara and came to school with brother Richard (a year older) and brother David (3yrs younger). We can remember enjoying our school time. Richard is in the B football team photo as the goalie in 1966, we have the photo as well. Trying to remember other things as well, but alot has happened since Verdala and the grey matter is not what it was! | |
| 321 | 13-06-2006 | Catherine | Condie | I forgot to mention in that last post that if you look at the photograph entitled “Roy Jenkins, class 4AJ, 1959-1960” I am the girl that’s 2nd row back from the front, 2nd in from the left. | |
| 320 | 13-06-2006 | Catherine | Condie | How wonderful to find this site and how weird life is. I had an unbelievably vivid dream last week and woke thinking of my school days at Verdala. I was there from 1959 to 1963 and as one of the members said, I feel we were more than privileged to enjoy such an
Interesting childhood.
I left Scotland one grey day, got off the plane after what seemed like eons, to be greeted by sheets of rain bouncing of the tarmac. I was most disappointed as Mum’s big selling point to persuade us how much we would enjoy Malta was that the sun would be shining. Imagine my delight when the next morning all I saw was the bright blinding light I was to get so used to over the next few years.
I too remember the climbing frames, one for the boys, one for the girls and playing marbles, such fun.
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| 319 | 30-05-2006 | Geoffrey | Bamber | I was at Verdala from 1951 to 1954 when I moved to Tal Handak. Great site. I haven't recognised any names yet except my 4AJ Teacher Mrs. Storm. Undoubtedly the best teacher I ever had in any of the 7 schools I attended. I owe her a lot | |
| 318 | 29-05-2006 | Joseph | Scerri | Last week I was with the minister of education where in the past I had meetings with him about the school and he informed me about the Verdala school that there is going to be a total refurbishment in summer. Even the Dome that there is in the hall.Did you knew that the Dome and the Palm tree which is in the yard you can see it from all over Malta? I was reading the comment of Steve Kimber I.D.302 which he sad that when he was in Malta in 1963-64. In his comment Mr.Kimber said that he was living next door to Mintoff's (Previous Prim Minister) brother who was murdered.Sorry to say that he's mistaken. All of Mintoff's brothers none of them was murdered.Probally Mr.Kimber is confusing to another accident. | |
| 317 | 26-05-2006 | Joseph | Scerri | I'm the Mayor of Cospicua and the Headteacher of Verdala school told me about this site. It is very interesting site. My father used to work in the Royal Navy and it's a nostalgy when you see a site like this. Keep it up
Joseph Scerri | |
| 307 | 16-05-2006 | Peter | Prictoe | I was at Verdala school from 1934 to 1938 when we lived at Rinella in some married quarters of Fort Ricasoli and have happy memories of the time. Later I served in Malta with the RAF. I suppose that there are few of my period on the internet as I am now in my eighties.
Peter Prictoe | |
| 306 | 30-04-2006 | Iain | Flett | Congratulations on a very good website, which I've just found. Brings back memories of the crash gearbox oil and garlic-fumed brightly painted buses which got me to school, probably by the help of the St Christopher medallion on the cracked windscreen!
Iain Flett | |
| 305 | 22-04-2006 | Ailsa | Laurie (Now Annis) | I was interested to read Laraine Penns comments as I was also in the Pied Piper. I was a Primrose and was also in the Jellyfish Ballet.Reading through the cast list brings all the names of my classmates back to me, it seems like yesterday. I am going back to Malta in June, and will try and find Verdala. | |
| 304 | 22-04-2006 | Sherryl | Flatbush (Now Clark) | My brother, Jeff, and I were at Tal Handaq from 1967 to 1970. Our dad opened the American Attache office in Valetta. We lived in Naxxar. I remember Evelyn Morgan, Rosalind and her twin brother, Chris (forgot surname), Karen Burgess and her brother, Budgie, and Stephen (forgot surname); Chris and David Brine (twin brothers); Michael Cassar Torregiani; and Letitia (forgot surname). I have pictures of these classmates while in Malta. | |
| 303 | 05-04-2006 | Laraine | Penn | Spent seven and half years in Malta from 1950 - june 1960 lovely to see the photos of the pied piper, remember it so well I was a rose and prince dragonfly or as I am sure I thought THE BEES KNEES! lovely to see the photographs of all the children and the teachers, Went back to Malta Middle of 1980's found Verdala but couldn't find Tal Handaq loved seeing malta again we used to love goind swimming at manol island ? and roller skating best childhood ever | |
| 302 | 20-03-2006 | Steve | Kimber | It seems such a long time ago, although I have revisit Malta and Verdala in the late 70's, early and mid 80's. I was packed off on a very long bus ride at the age of six, not knowing where I was going, or how I was going to get home again. Lived @ flat 2, 1 Marina Alley, Pieta duing 1963-64, next door to Mintoffs brother who was murdered whilst we were there! I can remember the Queen & Prince Phillip going past in an open top car during the independance celebrations.Hope to revisit Malta soon for some diving. | |
| 301 | 07-03-2006 | Jane | Stubbs Now Banks | Thank you ,Webmaster for providing us with 'Tomato Sauce'.I had been trying to get it all day to no avail, then I saw you've put it on Site ! Vivian Jones could be any one of us girls ,it was just as she has said ! I could just eat a piece now !Yummy memories,Grazzi hafna. | |
| 300 | 07-03-2006 | Martin | Ebbens | What a lovely short story, I could almost smell the garlic, and I can remember Octopus at Balluta bay, never had any myself (yuk).
Thanks for providing the link, I've just spent 15 minutes of NHS time wallowing in nostalga (I will make up the time).
take care everyone. | |
| 299 | 07-03-2006 | Chris | Jenkins | I hasten to add, I was not skiving off! I have always found that I can concentrate on work better if there is either music or radio in the background!
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| 298 | 06-03-2006 | Liz | Mardel (McMeeking) | My brother heard it and phoned to say it was on. I was out but listened to it on the BBC website's 'Listen Again' facility on this computer. If you enter "Scottish Shorts, Tomato Sauce" (including the inverted commas) in the 'Search' slot on the home page you can hear it tomorrow (Tuesday March 7th) and possibly Wednesday. Sorry, I meant to post this a few days ago! I contacted the BBC and asked them to tell Vivian Jones about this site - don't know if they will!! | |
| 297 | 06-03-2006 | Jo | Mogridge | Yes I heard the short story on Wednesday. My dad loved the Maltese bread with tomato sauce. Like the little girl, I was not allowed to go inside the Maltese neighbours' houses, just on the steps where I could be seen. It evoked so many memories | |
| 296 | 06-03-2006 | Chris | Jenkins | Did anybody else hear the Afternoon Reading on Radio 4 on Wednesday March 1? The story, entitled "Tomato Sauce" was about an RN officer's daughter lioving in Malta, who attended the 'Royal Naval School Verdala'. It appeared to be almost autobiographical. According to the Radio 4 website, the author is one Vivian Jones. Does anybody know her?ondering if | |
| 295 | 10-02-2006 | barbara | cleaver | I was at Verdala between l957 and l960. I can`t remember the class or teachers names. I lived in Dingli Street in Sliema and remember the long bus ride to school. My father taught at TalHandak. I have wonderful memories of Malta, including the Marsa Club and watching dad play cricket there. Also my favourite beach Paradise Bay. | |
| 294 | 05-02-2006 | Ailsa | Laurie | I was at Verdala between 1957 and 1959, I started in 3B1 with Mrs Steele, I then went into 4A2 with Miss Rowe. I was also in the Brownie pack and attended Miss Rowes ballet class. We lived in St Julians Court, Balluta. I found this site by accident and was amazed how many wonderful memories I still have. I will be going back to Malta in June and I will certainly go back to see the school. | |
| 293 | 05-02-2006 | Archie | Carter | Lived in Sliema opposite the stadium in Lourdes buildings.My dad was the CPO TASI at Msida, Nick Carter. Remember travelling every day to school, the climbing frames and playing marbles.Strange but always remember chemistry experiments in big brown boxes - the thrill and expectation!!! Best bit was half days in summer and down Manoel island beach club also the roller skating to music on the tennis courts. | |
| 292 | 30-01-2006 | Lynne | Merrin | I was at Verdala in 1954. My father was a Royal Naval Officer serving with the Fleet Air Arm at Hal Far. I think that I must have moved to Tal Handaq in 1955. From Verdala I particularly remember ny teacher Miss Rowe who gave me much encouragement as I was academically a 'bit slow'. I also remember Miss Vaizey (SP?). Interested to hear from anyone from this period and would like to know what happened to Miss Rowe. I currently live in Beirut but will be returning to UK later this year (2006). My married name is Poole. | |
| 291 | 21-01-2006 | theresa | hunt | Verdala was my first school. I remember, age 5, being put on a bus and getting to the school and freaking out not knowing what to do or where to go. Much the same as my shock at finding this site and seeing the old classroom etc. AND I was in Nelson and have the belt still and the school badge...what memories here. Thanks | |
| 290 | 14-01-2006 | Clive | Davies | I found this site via a link from DYRMS OBA site. I transferred to Verdala when Tigne school was closed. I think I was there for about 2 years between 1970 and 1972 (ish). I was in Nelson House and had a great time at the School. It's a pity that there are no photo's depicting the brief period that I was at the school. I do remember a Parrot though! Names of friends are now hazy although I recall Graham Gooch and Michael Orr as two particularly good mates living in Tigne. | |
| 289 | 30-12-2005 | Vincent | Ramsey | I thought that I'd better re-visit the site as it has been a long time since I last looked here.
Sorry I couldn't make the latest reunion..being in school term time was just a bit inconvenient for me. I would love to get to another one.
Some new names have posted here that I remember..Sharon Clulow, Alison McBee (who lived near me in Malta), and Carol Calcott (some of whom were my sister's (Catherine) friends). It does seem that many from my era (1971-1974) do not seem to post on here, which is a shame as - at the reunion near Brighton a couple of years ago - only 3 from this era were there (Steven Wrenn, Julian Hayward, and myself).
Anyway, hopefully this site will attract more - and grow in strength. Thanks for rekindling fond memories.
Happy New Year,
- Vincent | |
| 288 | 29-12-2005 | Elizabeth | Mardel (Miss McMeeking) | Hello Bill. Amazing, isn't it, finding news of all these ex-pupils now matured, retiring, becoming grandparents etc etc when we last knew them as 5 to 11 yr old kids! Very daunting, but good to know that so many have very happy memories of Verdala isn't it! Perhaps if the memories are not so good they don't write in!! I did send you a notice about the reunion didn't I? I tried to let all the ex-staff know. (Can't have this conversation through your daughter's e-mail as Alastair's suspended it at the moment!) - Liz | |
| 287 | 26-12-2005 | Bill Willsher | Willsher | Sorry we were unable to make the reunion. Very interested to see the old faces from the photo gallery our grandson showed us on his computer.
Please keep us both up to date with events and you can always e-mail my daughter Susan at the given e-mail address. | |
| 286 | 19-12-2005 | Liz | Mardel (Miss McMeeking) | Thank you Rita for your Christmas and New Year wishes. I’ve still to send the photos to you for the archive but need to consult my computer guru about it first. Did you see what I wrote in the Forum about our visit to the school, and about your talk? - I hope I quoted you accurately, I thought your history of the school site was fascinating. Happy Christmas and New Year to all at Verdala - past and present. | |
| 285 | 18-12-2005 | Rita | DeBattista | I would like to send my greetings for Christmas to all the ex students and teachers that I met last September for the second re-union of the Royal Naval School and all the ones that I have met since 1986/87 when I started teaching at Guzeppi Despott Boys' JL. Special regards go to Lin, Liz Mardel, the Clarks, Hugh and of course Alastair Newman the webmaster who is making it so easy for us all to keep contact. Thanks Jane Banks for her warm wishes to us all at present day Verdala. I will put copies of your regards Jane on the noticeboards of our staffrooms.
Best wishes to all also for the New Year!! | |
| 284 | 14-12-2005 | Rita | DeBattista | I am subject co-ordinator of Geography at Verdala. The school is now called Guzeppi Despott Boys Junior Lyceum. I started teaching here during scholastic year 1986/1987 and since then I have been collecting information about the past history of this site on top of Margherita Hill within the limits of Cospicua. It is always interesting to meet exservicemen, former students and teachers of the Royal Naval Schools who quite often visit our school. | |
| 283 | 07-12-2005 | Tracy | Radford | Your school looks great fun.The scenery in the plays quite fantastic. If Kevin Stenning reads this please get in touch.Tracy Radford | |
| 282 | 04-12-2005 | Keith | Petley | 1957>1959 Verdala Miss McMeeking Class
1959>1962 Tal Handaq 1B? & 2B
Some of the best years of my life, No worries, lots of sun, loads of friends, parties etc.
Was fortunate to go to Gibraltar for 3-1/2yrs after Malta so had a real fun childhood.
Now Live in Perth Australia and love it, climate similair to Malta and lots of beaches and Ocean. Keith | |
| 281 | 21-11-2005 | Mario | Zammit | My father was a CPO in the Navy,but he spent most of his service life at sea or in the UK. We came out to Malta in 1979 when he retired. I missed England badly. I used to spend hours exploring derelict ex Services buildings and establishments,maybe it was a link to my earlier life? But from this grew an avid interest in all aspects of life in British Malta. I was pleasantly surprised to find out about this website through an article in the Times of Malta about the september '05 reunion. I've realy enjoyed browsing it, it has allowed me to finally put faces and stories to the old buildings. Stories which echo my own happy childhood memories in England. Best of luck to you all and keep it up, for besides being of value for ex students and staff to contact each other it also provides a vivid snap shot of how life was for service families on Malta. | |
| 280 | 18-11-2005 | Val | Fraser | ANyone remember Val or Ron Fraser, 1956-59
Ron was at Verdala the full three years and I was there for one year then two at Tal Handaq.
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| 279 | 21-10-2005 | Gary | King | Hi to you all
I have only just stumbled across this website and I find it absolutely fascinating
A credit to you all
My memories of Tal Handaq School are not brilliant but it certainly got the brain going again …especially the photo of the school gates
Apparently I was that horrible little boy on the bus that screamed & cried at the site of the gates every day
I went to Tal Handaq School from 1961 to 1964 I would have been 5yrs old
My name is Gary King & my father was Chief Petty Officer Gerry King
I think my sister went to this school as well her name is Christine King
We lived in Gasan Court , Testaferrata St in Gzira
Went back there this year and have got some excellent photos
Next time you have a reunion count me in….. Im 1st on the Bus !
Fantastic photographs … well done
Cheers to all …… Happy Days
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| 278 | 21-10-2005 | Joanne | Mutter (now Gollandeau) | I was in Verdala infants from aged 5 - 6 (1964-1965) and have super memories of my time there, although names escape me. I recall just how big those climbing frames looked, the bus journey to school from Balluta Bay where I lived, and the many water fountains dotted around the school premises. I remember one day that the class were all called to go outside to look at hailstones - I was in Miss Stewarts class at the time and most of us had either never seen hailstones, or had come to Malta at an age where we couldn't recall having seen them before. I do feel privileged to have been to Verdala and am glad to see that other pupils memories are as happy as mine are. | |
| 277 | 16-10-2005 | David | Francis | I was at Verdala from the ages of 5 to 7: 1969 to the evacuation following the election of Dom Mintoff in 1971. I do remember playing marbles in marble alley, behind one of the school buildings. Being able to go up to the top of the school to see the JFK Aicraft carrier arrive. I had a teacher who had a parrot in the classroom, which it was said would bite your finger off if you stuck it in the cage. I remember a girl class mate and I being dressed up as an old couple for a school assembly where the parents were invited. The audience laughed so much that they had to close the curtains before order was restored. All I remember at the time was being embarrassed. We performed a tableau about the couple getting a letter from the son in Australia and then the class sang 'When I'm 64' by The Beatles.
We used to spend the afternoons at Kalafrana; an old sea plane base; because my father was in the RAF. We would swim off the chequerboard blocks and explore the deserted buildings and have a wonderful time. Before living in Malta we had lived in Bally Kelly in Northern Ireland and afterwards we were found somewhere to live in married quarters in Northumberland in a bitterly cold winter. And I was miserable. We had very little notice of the evacuation; I believe we heard it on the news on family favourites. My father had to stay behind and my poor mother had to take us (I, at 7 was the oldest of three boys!) from Brize Norton to Northumberland on public transport. We were able to bring very little and had to leave some of our belongings behind. I remember being called out in assembly at the school in Northumberland with another boy from Verdala who I hadn't known that well before but who became a friend for the short time I was there. I wonder if other people have memories of that experience? I have never spoken about it to anyone outside of my family. We were very happy in Malta. | |
| 276 | 15-10-2005 | Liz | Mardel (formerly McMeeking) | Many thanks, Sue Adams, for your comments below. As with everyone else it was good to put a face to your e-mails! I've posted my (rather lengthy!) afterthoughts about the reunion into the Forum. | |
| 275 | 05-10-2005 | Robert | Pountney/Tribble | I was only at Verdala for a short time in 1954 when I sat the 11 plus and moved to Tal Handaq until 1956. Have vague memories of the classroom in the middle of the fort, very exciting for a 10 year old. We lived in Paola as my stepfather was on HMS Barhill in Marsa Creek. Fell madly in love with an RAF Sqdn Ldrs daughter who lived in Sliema, heart broken when she left Malta before me!Went back last month for a holiday but couldn't find either school, good excuse for going back again. Went swimming at Ghaijn Tuffieha Bay for the first time in 50 years, it could have been yesterday. | |
| 274 | 25-09-2005 | Sue | Adams | Just been to the Verdala reunion (2005).6 pupils from 4Aj there,wonderful time,especially visitng the school again and reliving those very happy memories.Many thanks to Linda and Liz for their brilliant organization.Iwas in Malta 59-61,it now looks tidier every where.But you can take the pupil out of the school but not the school out of the pupil!!! | |
| 273 | 31-08-2005 | Malcolm | Wilson | I was in Malta 1958-60 with my teenage sister June. We lived in Sliema. My sister was involved in a car accident on the airfield. I attended Verdala. I do not remember much, except the climbing frames and Christmas parties. Does anyone remember me / us? My late father was on the RFA Roseleigh? | |
| 272 | 30-08-2005 | Jackie | Cunningham | I was in Malta 1952-55 and then 57-59. I caught polio and was at Mtarfa hospital for over seven months. After that I went to Verdala. I was in Nelson House (red) and my teacher was Miss Robinson. I too remember the Tuck Shop and playing cowboys and Indians. My dad was on HMS Glasgow and then HMS Striker. We first lived in Paula and I can remember listening to the goat herd with their bells, passing the house early morning and late evening. Second time we lived in Senglia and used to go swimming in the harbor, swimming out to the buoys where some the fleet were moored, much to the annoyance of the harbor police. I remember the regattas and days at the beach. We loved it. I was at Tal Handaq this time. Have never been back but remember it fondly. My maiden name was Poole, and I can only remember one name of a boy (Henry Moore) whom I had a crush on. Of course, I'm sure he didn't know. This is a great site, brought back alot of memories. | |
| 271 | 29-08-2005 | Mike | Verney | I was at Verdala from 1964 to 1966 and there I am on the 1965 cub picture, frightening! My mother was Akela of the pack around 65/66 and some people may still remember her.
I used to live in Gasan Court on Testerferata Street. I have not been back yet but I keep meaning to get around to it. This is a great site and I would love to hear from anyone who remembers me.
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| 270 | 22-08-2005 | MALCOLM | TURGOOSE | I was at Verdala from 1954/1957 and my last teacher was Miss Butters.My father was on HMS Forth for all that time as his designated relieve ordnance engineer officer was killed on Forth's sister ship HMS Maistone at Portland in a high test peroxide experimental torpedo explosion which ment we were in Malta for over 3 years instead of the normal two.Have visited Malta many times since and still love the place.
We lived at Balluta Bay in the married quarters there which are now obviously private flats.
I can remember lots of friends at Verdala in my mind but not their names now. | |
| 269 | 18-08-2005 | Susan | Beck | I went to different school in Malta (!'m half English, half Maltese), but mixed with lots from Verdala/Tal-Handaq schools on Tigne Beach in Sliema from about 1960 - 1967;including Ian Proctor, Dave Gillam, Jane Baxter, Jane Holt, Steve ?, plus others whose names escape me. If any one remembers me - do make contact. I live in UK and France, but am a frequent visitor to Malta. | |
| 268 | 12-08-2005 | Marion | Hance | I loved looking through this site. I have very fond memories of my time in Malta and although I can't really recall many names I know that I loved Verdala. I was six when I joined in October 1961 and I left in November 1963 and didn't want to go back to the UK. My sister Jillian was 9/10. Our last name was Hance and our Dad served (I think) on HMS Surprise at that time. My fondest memory is of being lucky enough to be given our class teacher's budgie Peter. She was giving it away because she was leaving. I was in Drake house and I think Jillian was in Hawkins. My brother David Hance went to Talhandaq. I remember my first ever kiss was from a boy called Howard. I remember how I hated that horrible sour milk, except the chocolate one. I remember how cold the water was in the pool. We lived in Pieta, Hookham Freer Street opposite a little grocery shop where we would buy American bubble gum. I also went to ballet and I remember my sister was friends with the daughter of the ballet teacher. She hated ballet and wanted to ride horses. I would love to hear from anyone who may remember me. I live in Florida in the USA now. | |
| 267 | 04-08-2005 | Stephen | Bentham | I was a pupil at Verdala 1960-63. I was in the infants back then but can still remember swimming at manoel island, Sundays at paradise bay.We lived in flats in Sliema called Marshall Courts.My dad was serving on the Ausonia at this time, do any of your parents remember him Charlie.ben.Bentham. Best wishes to everyone who were at Verdala | |
| 266 | 28-07-2005 | barbara | parsonage | I was at Verdala from 1972 to 1975 - and have many happy memories of those long lost innocnet and sunny days! Commander Bond was our headmaster and sent all the girls in school Valentines cards with the story of St Valentime printed inside! I wasin Mr Joernings class and also remember Miss Tranter, Mrs Ferrugia-Bell, Mr Medlicott and Mrs Medlicott - they got married when i was there but cant remember her maiden name! I giggled a lot and Mr Joernings would make me stand in the corridor! I was friends with Lesley Langford, and in love with Paul Hatherley (he had at least two sisters) and Simon Williams - we used to play 'war' at play times and i would be the nurse!! I also remember mad tricks on the red bars in the playground, getting my 'width' swimming certificate in the pool on the hill behind the classrooms. My sister Lisa was in Mrs Ferrugi-Bells class and so was my brother Mickey - Lisa used to do good impressions of Mrs FB for the rest of the class. I remember running down the hill to get the school buses home and i remember playing 'Spanish Eyes' on my guitar for an assembly or evening recital thingy! Have thoroughly enjoyed visiting the site - will be back! | |
| 265 | 09-07-2005 | Deirdre | King | I was at Verdala from 1963-65 and have very happy memories. We lived in Sliema, Gzira and then Balzan. In Gzira, our rooftop overlooked the football stadium, and although he wasn't remotely interested in the sport, my father became VERY popular with his colleagues! I would like to say "Hi" to Mr Carroll, who was a fabulous teacher. | |
| 264 | 02-07-2005 | Kay | Haines | In the staff line up photo of 1965 just to say that I am number 12 - School Secretary Kay Haines | |
| 263 | 29-06-2005 | Donald | Stratton | I was in 3A and 4A in 1965 and 1966 then went of to Tal Handaq and Mr. Ratcliffe's Latin classes.
I was often seen in the company of Colin Crossley, Stephen King, George Mattingley, Anne Caley, Linda Patterson. I was captain and then vice captain of St. Vincent in 1966 (standards clearly began to slip starting then). I remember some of the guests names already seen.
Great job on the website, by the way. Well done. | |
| 262 | 26-06-2005 | anthony | arpa | This is a gret site keep it up.
I AM INVITING YOU ALL TO VISIT MY FRINDLY MSN GROUP.
http://groups.msn.com/MALTESE-AND-WORLDWIDE-VISITORS-MEETING-PLACE
REGARDS,
ANTHONY | |
| 261 | 24-06-2005 | stan | bradshaw | served narvik 1958 christmas isle tests
anyone off that commission knew me.
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| 260 | 14-06-2005 | Steve | Blakeway | Hello to everyone. I've just found this site. My sister and I were there in 61 and 62 and this brings back some wonderful memories. Great times, hot weather. Lived in Reed Street Gazera near Selima, not far from Manal Island where we used to swim most summer days. I too remember the cold winter in 63 when returning back to teh Victory estate in Gosport | |
| 259 | 31-05-2005 | Roger | Powell | Hi there all - Roger Powell here - was at Verdala from around 55 - 62 I think. My sister Lynda attended too. Be great to hear from anyone who remembers us! | |
| 258 | 29-05-2005 | Brian | Lowe/Horgan | I was born in April 1957 and attended Verdala School 1961-1963, infants. Unfortunately, I don't remember names of classmates or staff, except I recognised Mr Why from the staff photo. I remember the the swimming lessons and the heart stopping bus journeys to and from school and forgetting which was my stop on the way home on my first day. My name was Brian Lowe back then but I am now Brian Horgan. We lived in the flats in Sliema. I would love to hear from anyone who remembers me or was in the infants at that time, (see photos, one of me in khaki uniform & one of me and my mum Anita Horgan - I'm the one in the school blazer!). I am now working as a bus driver in Lancaster! | |
| 257 | 22-05-2005 | Philip | Couper | I attended Verdala, for about 3 years, returning to a very cold England in November '63.
We lived in the just built Promenade flats above Invicta Furishings,over looking Sleima Creek & Maneol Island. I have fond memories of Maltese Buses, Floriana was a treat, I made freinds with a Maltese driver & his family, I also had a boat, it broke my heart coming home to UK, to this day i will say my best years. I sold my boat (Dora Bella) to Mr Why I think ,who had a yacht called Puffin, and spent time with him on it with his son.
I have been back to Malta many times, even staying in Promenade flats now owned by a Mr Muscat. I have visited Verdala, each time being made welcome.All the best Phil. | |
| 256 | 20-05-2005 | Peter | McBain | Hi all, like you went to Verdala,till Aug 1964.Lived @ 8 Marshall's Court, Sliema.What a bus trip.Remember Carol Carr & Michael Macdonald from the flats,and a boy with a wooden leg,in my year @ school,but not good with names.Have some good memories of school and Malta,xmas parties on the submarine etc,great times.Take care all. | |
| 255 | 16-05-2005 | Peter | Prictoe | There must be someone from pre-II war days who was at Verdala as I was in the nineteen thirties.
Mind you I am coming up 80 so there cannot be many of us! | |
| 254 | 16-05-2005 | peter | prictoe | I have still not found anyone at Verdala with me but that was back in 1934-1938! | |
| 253 | 02-05-2005 | Robert | Brown | Hi I was at verdala from 55-57 what wonderful memories I have, the best years of my life, what adventures I had, no school in the afternoon just adventures and pure fun. I lived in Senglea and my father was serving on HMS surprise berthed off senglea point. I cant remember any names but would like to hear from anyone out there at the same time | |
| 252 | 30-04-2005 | Alastair | Newman | Welcome to the new and combined guest book. This book was compiled from two guest books dating back to 2001. Enjoy. Best regards | |
| 251 | 10-04-2005 | Heather | Bauchope | I attended Verdala 1966-1967 then Tal Handaq till 1969. I have very fond memories-the bus journey from Sliema to Verdala, hanging upside down from the rope frame, and the marbles. Trying to get out quickly at playtime to get the best "hole" for the marbles. I seem to remember I won a lot of marbles but when I moved to Tal Handaq I gave my young brother Andrew my huge bag full of marbles to take to Tigne school and he lost the lot in one day!!
Also loved school sports day. Still have my Verdala sports certicates, Verdala and Tal Handaq school reports. I even have a book I got at prize giving in 1967.
My best friend was Eleanor Ross whose dad was the Deputy Headmaster. We kept in touch until 1975 then unfortunately lost touch. I would love to get in touch with her again.
I still go to Malta most years, often twice a year. The island has changed enormously since the 1960s but I'm still drawn there. | |
| 250 | 07-04-2005 | Sharon | Comlay now Clapson | hello,i was fortunate to be at Verdala from 1963-1966.Such happy memories and happy times-sun sea,swimming and sports day!!
I was taught by Miss Rowe.Miss Mulch and Mr Why.
i remember the swimming pool and my class having a garden to tend near Miss Mulch's classroom.i had an oval garden to care for i remember.
the buses were great.i had to walk to a bus stop near Manuel Island each day inorder to catch the bus.
I loved tthe climbing ropes and watching the school panto-jeremy Thompson was The Admiral!!
Happy days but as i have small children i will be unable to attend the re-union(Yes i was late in starting a family).
Hope the reunion goes well and all enjoy themselves.
Bon Voyage -i hope they do not still serve warm milkshakes!!! | |
| 249 | 09-03-2005 | Kay | Haines | I was school secretary from 1965-1967 and have many happy memories of my time there. I have been back to Verdala twice since then, when on holiday in Malta, and was pleased to find the web site to catch up with news and read the messages. Malta is still one of my favourite places for holidays. | |
| 248 | 08-03-2005 | Nicki | Boulton / Barnes | Hi, I attended Verdala 1962-1965 and have just visited the site again. What memories; rushing for the bus, getting sun-stroke on sports day, the flavoured milk at break-time and does anyone remember the swimming gala and hammerhead shark episode? I am terrible at names and will need to look at the old mags and school reports! I am going to try and attend the reunion and fingers crossed I will hear from some old classmates. Brilliant website! | |
| 247 | 06-03-2005 | Steve | Frost | I was at verdala from 1965 to 1969 think I did 11+ then we went back to uk had a great time browsing this website brought back many memories some names I remember andrew scut,leslie dunbar,paul kennington,graham ferguson and glen macklin and Mr why was my last teacher there,I remeber marbles,kiss chase ,swimming, the blue lady and the rope climbing frames. Great days they were. | |
| 246 | 06-03-2005 | Jo | Mogridge now Woodall | Have just found details of the reunion, so forget what I said earlier! | |
| 245 | 05-03-2005 | Jo | Mogridge now Woodall | Hi - I was at Verdala from September 1956 to July 1959. I went on to Tal-Handaq in 1965. I have many happy memories of my time in Malta, the climbing ropes where I was upsidedown for most of the time, and especially those wonderful buses! I have so far returned twice and hope to go again to the reunion in September, but cannot find any details of it on the site. I remember a few names from Verdala - Ann Grigg, Jane Stubbs, Anne Mintoff, Russell Winterbourne, Peter Mulvaney, Ian & Anne Pennington, Ian Proctor. And staff - Mrs Farrugia, Mr. Lewis and Mr Radford {who was my father-in-law for 8 years, and who sadly died in Dec 2003}. If anyone remembers me, get in touch! | |
| 244 | 13-02-2005 | Douglas | Green | Thought I'b better reregister inthe new book.
I have only happy memories of childhood spent in Malta.eg chocolate sundae ice creams in the plastic push up cones at Tigne Beach. I attended Verdala 1966 to 1970.Hawkins House.Wasn't keen on that swimming pool on the hill. Marbles at playtime behind the library more enjoyable.Fell off the climbing frame/net located at the top of the school drive. Broke my elbow,rescued by matron and spent a few days at Bighi hospital. Also remember playing somersaults in a cut out container against the wall backing on to the sports field.Felt ever so important one summer when we came to school in the Admirals car a shiny black Ford Zodiac !
Was Commander Northey the Headmaster ?
The only names of contemporaries that I can recall are;Neil Pigeon [dad was a Naval Dentist],Alistair Soutar,Mark Vincent [I think his dad was in the RAF]
Jeremy Smith [from Scarborough]-he had a penchant for malt loaf sandwiches.
Where are you all now ? Still have the slides that my parents took at sportsday 68/69/70, on and the medal for the 100 yards . | |
| 243 | 01-02-2005 | Jane | Banks / Stubbs | I attended Verdala 55-58 and my memory tells me I enjoyed my schooldays there! I have already signed thisGuest Book No 62 However I am submitting a new email address as no62 is now void. If old friends have tried to get in touch please contact me on my new address as I am looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you Alistair for this site and the memories it brings back!! . | |
| 242 | 11-12-2004 | Michelle | Mickleborough | Hi everyone, I attended Verdala between 1972 and 1974. I have many fond memories of the place. I remember Mr Bond our Headmaster and his great story telling, sports day and the school bus races. My older brother John attended Tal Handaq. | |
| 241 | 17-11-2004 | Sharon | Heard / Clulow | I was at verdala 74/75 begfore going onto talhandaq for around 6 months. I was in Mrs. Johnsons class I remember Penny Dowse we stayed in contact for a good many years but shes in Australia now. I also remember my very dear friend Alison McBee, Carol Calcutt,many happy memories! | |
| 240 | 02-11-2004 | Carole | Adams / Millis | I was at Verdala 56-58 I can't remember any friends name only my teachers Mr Wilshire. I think I wore a yellow sash. Remember playing marbles, finishing school early in the summer and off to Manoel Island all afternoon. | |
| 239 | 25-10-2004 | Alex | Wright | Attended Verdala 69/71. Did not come back after the evacuation. Loved every minute. My Dad was a teacher at Tal Handaq. Now live in France. | |
| 238 | 09-10-2004 | Rosalyn Kay | Robertson | I attended Verdala from 1955 - 1958 and was in Drake House. I remember Paul Lovell as a friend. Also Miss Reid, teaching ballet and the lovely Miss Vasey. They were very happy years and I went on to attend Tal-Handaq from 1960 - 1963. Does anyone remember my brother Roddy Robertson, a very good sportsman along with Graham Stubbs? | |
| 237 | 03-10-2004 | Nicholas | Evans | I must admit to not remembering many names - I was at Verdala 1966 -1968 but am looking forward to the reunion in 2005. If there is anyone else in the same situation would like to hear from you. My father who is going to come out as well was the BSO at St. Angelo 1966 - 1969. | |
| 236 | 28-09-2004 | Nicola-Jayne | Chapman | Sorry got the wrong year for Lorretta - she is in the 1967 Netball photo | |
| 235 | 28-09-2004 | Nicola-Jayne | Chapman | My sister Lorretta, brother Andrew and myself attend Verdala and loved it. Lorretta is in the netball photo for 1966 (back left).
Would love to hear from anyone who attended the same years as us.
1966 - 1969 | |
| 234 | 20-08-2004 | Julie | Margarson / Lambert | Just browsing on the internet and typed in Verdala, to my surprise and delight this turned up! I was at Verdala from 1961-1964, was in Drake, and can honestly say that I enjoyed myself so much there that I didnt want to return to the UK! The picture gallery was a real nostalgia trip, thank you! | |
| 233 | 11-08-2004 | Susan | Reed | We were all so lucky being able to live such a wonderful life style. Snaps show how we, as children, blossomed in our new life in the sunshine after a cold and bleak start in postwar England.
Memories of the baking sun on Sports Day, making daisy chains, hanging upside down on the monkey bars etc. Xmas nativity play. Great memories! | |
| 232 | 05-08-2004 | david | wirrich | I forgot to mention I was in Hawkins and was at Verdala from July 1963 to July 1964, when I went "up" to tal-Handaq. Can anyone remember my friends David Mercer and Nick Holloway? | |
| 231 | 05-08-2004 | David | Wirrich | I wondered in a quiet moment whether there was anything on the web about Verdala and to my great surprise I was delighted to find this page.
I will now devour it all and trust I will be able to join the next reunion | |
| 230 | 03-08-2004 | Jane | Banks / Stubbs | Congratulations on a wonderful nostalgic back to school experience!I was at Verdala from 54-58.I was in Mr Ousbey'class 3C and 4C.My brother Graham went to Tal Handaq and was very good at sports.We lived in Sliema, Egmont Close.My Father was stationed at Dingli.We also knew the Tuckers and the Jeffrys !Does anyone remember the Stubbs ?? | |
| 229 | 10-07-2004 | Stephen | Hunt | I was in the infants department in 1962&early63, and the junior department in 63 and early64.I remember the school but few classmates names remain. I still have schoolreports signed by M.A. McIntyre,Mary Sylvester Head and W.B Lewis. | |
| 228 | 02-07-2004 | Keith | Barber | I was at Verdala from May 1958 to May 1961. In my last year at the school I was in Mr Ross' class. I played in goal for the football team in my last year and my memory of this is that we did not concede a goal all season! | |
| 227 | 30-06-2004 | Brenda | Broad / Coombs | I attended Verdala with my twin sister Ruth from 1956-1958. We lived in Gzira and have loads of happy memories of our time in Malta. Ruth and I hope to meet up with teachers and pupils next September. | |
| 226 | 29-06-2004 | steve | byrne | I was at Verdala 75/76 in Miss Armstrongs class. I was good friends with Mark Baxter and a lad called Simion. I seemed to spend alot of playtimes kept in, to finish off work ,with a girl who was the smallest in the year, but was very funny and we never got anything done. The same thing is now happening to my son . | |
| 225 | 24-06-2004 | francesca | cheeseman | I was at Verdala from '61-'63. My older brother Nick was at Verdala initially then went to Tal-Handaq. I don't remember any names, just the look of the school and the horrible coloured milk that was always left out in the sun and the seemingly endless coach journey to school from our flat on Balutta Bay at Sliema. I remember a female teacher who always made us move our seat on the coach as she wanted to site there! Hoping to come to reunion in 2005! Does anyone remember me? (My name is now Buxey) | |
| 224 | 19-06-2004 | Alison | Farrar (Greenaway) | I was at Verdala from 1958. I remember Commander PAINTER being the headmaster. | |
| 223 | 18-06-2004 | Rhona | Johnson | I was at Verdala and Tal Handaq 57-59. I was in Mr. Ousbey's class
I remember singing all the latest "pop songs" on the school bus. Fond Memories. | |
| 222 | 08-06-2004 | Jennifer | Wellard / Waterworth | At Verdala between 1957 and 1959 Dad was on HMS Forth, birthed in Msida Creek
Two sisters went to Tal Handaq
Lived firstly in St Julians, and then in Marshall Court, Gzira
I was in White House
Glad to say those buses are still just as much fun as before, only the worst ones have been taken off the road | |
| 221 | 07-06-2004 | Yvonne | Douglas / Eggleston | Hi My brother Ian and I were at Verdala 1958-61. The last class I was in was 3A and the teacher was Mr Ouseby, who was brilliant - the Tudors remain my favourite period in History! I was in the Brownies and did ballet with Miss Rowe. It was good to see the pictures of the ballet class in Peter and the Wolf (I'm in the middle on the second row). Does anyone remember Julia Northey and 'Greensleeves'? | |
| 220 | 07-06-2004 | Ruth | Flaherty / Coombs | My twin sister and I were at Verdala between 1956 and 1958. We plan to attend the reunion with other old Verdalans. | |
| 219 | 05-06-2004 | Sharon | Clapson / Comlay | Educated at Verdala 63-66
Class 3b miss Mulch abd Miss Rowe.
Had Mr Why for Music and spelling.
Have very happy memories of Verdala.
Have a copy of the 64-65 year book.Jeremy Thompson as an Admiral on the front cover.
Lived at Gzira and caught one of the famous buses to school each day.
Was in Drake house.
Remember the netting-loved climbing on this. Bye for now. | |
| 218 | 23-05-2004 | Michael | Walker | Hi I was at Verdala from 57-59,but have only just discovered this site.I remember some good times,and some not so good(the riots in the Mintoff troubles).Unfortunately I am terrible with names.Hoping to come to reunion and try to recall some faces,and meet some friends from Nelson(I think) | |
| 217 | 22-05-2004 | Keith | Wigglesworth | Hi, was at Verdala between '64-'66. Am 3rd from left, back row of 1966 B football team. Also there is Simon Jeffries, George Mattingley and Steve Griffiths. Remember loads about the school, Marines beating the retreat, keeping skinks in desks, marbles, the tunnels, afternoon clubs (navigation & ballet!!), naafi meal tickets, the bus rides, school nurse inspections. Fun days!! | |
| 216 | 20-05-2004 | Jane | Gaughy | My sister and I were at the school 1976 - 1978. I don't remember much, only the Pageant that was held for the Queens Silver Jubilee. I was a flower girl, and had to carry a hoop with someone else. | |
| 215 | 10-05-2004 | Andy | Godman | i was at verdala from 1973 to 1975 before going up to tal-handaq i was in 4C with mr collins i remeber the headmaster being a Lt/Cmd bond we all called james bond great site brings back some great times that i had at verdala | |
| 214 | 03-05-2004 | Bill | Rickards | As Iwas at Verdala in 38to40 then moved to St Georges until June 42 thought I was a dinosaur among you younguns butI found a 34-38 one | |
| 213 | 23-04-2004 | Marilyn | Finch | Just reading about so many aged friends. I was in 3A in 57/58 with Roy Jenkins and still have the reports which I hide from my children. I was the one that spent most of my time in the corridor for being naughty. Still in touch with Penny Cooper and remember Madeleine Knight, Anne Mintoff and Bruce Dingley. | |
| 212 | 06-04-2004 | Marilyn | X | I was at Verdala from 1957 to 1959. I started in Miss Stinton's class which was 2A. I cannot remember who my teacher was for 3A but it was a male teacher. I would like to know. I remember many names but would like to find out what they are doing now. | |
| 211 | 03-04-2004 | Lisa | Parsonage | I was at Verdala 72-75. I was in Mrs Farrugia Bells class. She was and is my favourite teacher of all time. I can rememeber the class being broken into,my brother Mickey and I found the burglary. We thought the cleaners had made a mess and tidied part of it up. When the Maltese Police came and started to fingerprint things Mickey and I worried for weeks we would be arrested. Can you remember the budgies or the plastic mats we had sandwiches on.
Can you remember the Pied Piper production or many of you may remmeber my spectacular performance of Mary in one of the local Maltese churches.Can you remember the Maltese hymn MssFB used to make us sing. Wonderful Days | |
| 210 | 12-03-2004 | Roger | Turner | Hi there ! My brother Dennis and I were at Verdala 1949-52. Great to find the site, really brought back some memories (mainly the buses). Sorry to say age has taken its toll and can now only remember a couple of classmates. Maybe finding you will stimulate the grey cells. | |
| 209 | 10-03-2004 | Celia | Andrews | I was in Malta between 1960 and 1963 and was in Mr Woodhams class at Verdalla. Have many happy memories of school, the busses to get there, the long afternoons at the beach and the overnight bbqs on the beach mainly with other naval families.It was a fantastic childhood for me, and reading all these comments has brought it all back. Do we realise how privileged we were to have experienced that life?
I would love to hear from anyone who may remember me. The only 2 names I remember are Mary Walker and Leigh Andrews who both left the island before we did. | |
| 208 | 09-03-2004 | Terry | Baker | Thank you for some wonderful memories I attended Verdala 1952-53.My most vivid memories are the bus ride home and sitting on the back seat singing songs of the day with friends I can no longer put names to. | |
| 207 | 04-03-2004 | Mark | Plater | OldOppos.co.uk is a contact and reunion website for ex and serving Royal Navy. We are developing a new fundraising section for our website. Not wanting to give away to much at this time but our new program will be administered by a leading company specialising in the running of on line fundraising. Every week we receive requests for charitable help and have donated money to service charities in the past - the new OldOppos charity fundraising seemed like a great way of helping and, most importantly, providing an alternative to the profit orientated approach of other schemes. None of the money raised is passed on to OldOppos Limited. When the new fundraising section is launched I hope that all the visitors to your website will spare a few pennies in this 60th anniversary year of D Day and many other battles of WWII. | |
| 206 | 03-03-2004 | Peter | Lant | Cannot e-mail rustymagic@aol.com but I remember a car accident at sports day but it must have been 1959. | |
| 205 | 01-03-2004 | Derek | Cake | To meander through a site and find your photograph as a sailor rat in a 1958 pantomime is a sobering experience! I was a pupil from January 1957 until June 1960. My teacher, Miss Rowe was an inspiration to all, as I recall. Whilst I remember few names, my mother remembers the Chase family (twins?) the Waterworth's and the Hurst's, all from the Portsmouth area. Visiting the site has brought back many happy memories. My other claim to fame was being expelled as a prefect for fighting on the bus! (probably over a girl). My thanks to all who have put this site and the photographs together. | |
| 204 | 29-02-2004 | Linda | Edwards | I was in Verdala 1958 to 1961 enjoyed looking at all the old photos, my teacher was Miss Candy. I also was the milk monitor made sure i had the chocolate milk,I live in Australia now, but still miss the english navy life that i was brought up to.my father was on HMS Narvik anyone out there connected to that ship at the same time? | |
| 203 | 13-02-2004 | Janet | Kember (twin) | Hi to you all, remember the photo on the climbing frame of 11 sets of twins, jane and l are the 11yr olds. | |
| 202 | 04-01-2004 | Adrian | Newman | Ran out of room! Am fairly sure that the 3rd year Class 1958/9 on the site shows me at bottom left, but am ready to be corrected. Miranda Sharp has been mentioned - I remember her well. My 1st solo air trip to school in the UK was with her - her father had a private cinema in Malta to censor films, which I went to many times | |
| 201 | 04-01-2004 | Adrian | Newman | I was at Verdala from 1958 to 1962. I was one of the few non-Naval pupils, as my father was manager then of Barclays Bank in Merchant Street. I have returned to Malta on many occasions, lastly in June '03, and always visit the alma mater! On my last trip thereI took several digital photos - can email them to anyone who is interested! | |
| 200 | 24-11-2003 | Roraidh | Scott | How fantastic to see pictures of the
school after 43 years.I was at Verdala
for about a year(1959/60).Miss Rowe was
my teacher(class 3BJ).I may have been in the climbing frame picture at the top in the middle although the year does not quite correspond.I sometimes got a lift to the school bus on the back of a donkey and cart.We used to live in B'kara opposite the "Friend-to-all Bar"I enjoyed my time in Malta immeasurably.Ban yan boat trips to the Blue Grotto, Kitty Cola,paper kites, marbles,bread and tomato paste etc.
My parents described Malta as
boats & shoats, bells & smells!Coloured
buses,Sliema Creek,Wembley Ice Cream, Diving at Tigne beach - What truly happy days they were.Many thanks to the creator of this website! | |
| 199 | 02-11-2003 | Len | Peters | Great site. I was there from 55-57.I can remember Miss Vasey,Miss farrugia,and especially Miss Rowe ,Does anyone remember "Bertie Edwards"which was a big wooden bat she whacked us with.I can still feel it now.Thanks for the memories. Len | |
| 198 | 23-10-2003 | John | Vella | I am doing some research on the Vernon Club (next to Castille Place) Valletta, Malta. I would like to know when the Vernon Club was built. | |
| 197 | 05-10-2003 | Bruce | Taylor | The memories come flooding back. Thanks to those people who have put this site together. I was at Verdala from early 1955 to mid 1957, finishing in Form 3AJ - teacher William Willsher, Headmaster E. Paynter. I remember the marbles and the climbing ropes, also playing "spitfires" in the playground. Weekends were spent roller skating around Princess Flats, and swimming at Paradise Bay, Military Bay and the rafts at Tigne. The "festas" were another highlight. I now live in Sydney, Australia. | |
| 196 | 25-09-2003 | Rob | Taylor | Hi I went to Verdala between 1955-57, and have many happy memories of the bus trip there, playing on the net and marchng into assembly to some awful music - and "Onwarsd Christian Soldiers" Great to see the old pictures of the place, might add some of my own. Am now in Sydney Australia | |
| 195 | 24-09-2003 | Lindsay | McNeil / Freeston | I was born in 1950 in Portsmouth, attended Verdala from 1959 to 1961, the went to Tal Handaq. Left Malta January 1962.
Whilst at Verdala was a cat in Miss Rowes performance of Peter and the Wolf.
Oh how I wish sometimes we were all still there. Would love to hear from anyone who remembers me. | |
| 194 | 10-09-2003 | David | Stanford | I attended the school between 1961 and 1963. I have very (!) mixed memories of the school, but time has dulled the memories and I can recall no names. I have put a few thoughts on Friends Reunited, but suffice to say, great to see this web site, and belated apologies from me for switching the milk around before morning break so we could get the chocolate ones! | |
| 193 | 01-09-2003 | Trevor | Lock | Found this site after someone saw my school included Verdala. I only included this school after its name popped back into my head from god knows where!!!! | |
| 192 | 19-08-2003 | Jan | Gatt | i am 13 years old and from the pictures that i saw the school look likes the same that it is right now there are some few changes in buildings and the playing yard now instead of the basketball rings there are a hockey pitch. | |
| 191 | 18-07-2003 | Christopher | Faux | was in ta-handaq 1970/71 i hope to go back and have a look around i do no remember much as it be a long time now 30plus year now time dose fly any way i do remember a few things any can not wait to go back and see what the place is now | |
| 190 | 15-07-2003 | Christine | Northam-Palmer | at verdala 55 -58 best years of childhood life.Lived at tesraferrata st gzira and lourdes bldgs gzira.Many memories swimming out to raft at manoel island the men watching football on flat roof cheese pastries in valetta.Hope to return one day.Hope I won't be disappointed! | |
| 189 | 26-06-2003 | Nicola-Jayne | Chapman | I was at Verdala from the age of 6 till I was 9 (1966 - 1969), I loved it, I was in the house that was red - think it was call Nelson but not sure, I also attended the Brownies at school, met Lady Baden-Powell at the Goveners House with the Brownies. My sister Lorretta (5 years older than me)is in one of the school netball photos on this site. I remember my last teacher at school was the deputy head but I can't remember his name. Would love to hear from anyone who may remember me. Moved to Gosport, Hampshire when we left Malta, and I still live there. | |
| 188 | 26-06-2003 | Daphne | Wye | hi i attended verdala 54/56 my name being daphne wye my sister also attended her name was rosina wye [nina] we returned to malta in 58/60 where i went to talhandaq and my sister returned to verdala. there she was in the brownies and the school quire. on the photo of the quoire dated 58 she is in the front row. as you can tell this e mailing is new to me being a late starter. | |
| 187 | 24-06-2003 | Peter | Pritcoe | I was at Verdala 1934 to 1938 with Mrs Penfold , then Mr Armes and finally Sub/Lt Miles who after the war as a captain ran the Malta schools | |
| 186 | 22-06-2003 | John | Why | Thanks to Diane Perry for reminding me of the "forced tapioca feeding". I`m sure that today, if I acted like I did through my career [a very happy career], I wold be out on my ear on no time. Diane if you want to contact me please do. I remember you as a smallish, dark haired lass, with a serious attitude to life, but a cheeky smile at times.That about sums up most of us when we were young. | |
| 185 | 19-06-2003 | Gerard | Hawkes | I was at Verdala from '52-'54 in the days of LtCdr Bellamy. The only teacher I remember was a Miss Robinson.
I was very keen on Marbles, playing on the nets, Dinky cars and going to Tigne Beach - What an adventure!!
I now live in Bishops Waltham, Hampshire.
Regards to all
Gerry | |
| 184 | 19-06-2003 | Janet | Merriman | I was at Verdala from 1952 until 1955 and at Tal Handaq from 1958 until 1961.
I well remember the trip on the bus from Silema - a long journey for a 6 year old!
I started off in the main school but at one time went to an annex which seemed a long walk from the school.
I remember Sports Day and concerts and going to the Dockyard for a party to celebrate the Coronation.
My brother, John, also went to Verdala but was ahead of me. I notice from the school magazine that he received a prize one year.
I now live in Adelaide, South Australia and through a mutual friend I met Jenny Van Rees who also went to Verdala from 1951! Small world. | |
| 183 | 19-06-2003 | Fiona | McKinnon | I was in Nelson House and one of my teachers names was Miss Quick.Does anyone else remember her? | |
| 182 | 18-06-2003 | Stephen | Nicholson | I was at Verdala between January 1967 and May 1969 - the last two years in Mr Woodham's class (3b and 4aw). I was the goalkeeper in the school football team in my last year - managed by Mr Perkins - when we were undefeated in winning the league. I'd love to hear from anyone who remembers me | |
| 181 | 17-06-2003 | Kelly | Henshaw (nee Hodgeon) | I was at Verdala between 1974 & 1975 as an infant. My sister Kirsti was also there. During the time there our classroom was broken into, does any one remember? I loved Verdala and have searched for ages for info on it, great site. I remember we used orange exercise books for our work, loved the books. Had to measure things in spans, does any one remember? | |
| 180 | 13-06-2003 | Lindsay | McNeil | Hi Who said school days are the best of your life? Well reading your web site they were. It is a shame I cannot remember much these days. I was in Malta 1958-1962 (born in June 1950) made me 8yrs when arriving and 12 when leaving, with two sisters, one 4 years younger and one 2 1/2 yrs older. Took my 11 plus at Verdala in 1961 and then went to Tal Handaq. What I remember is Miss Rowe, did ballet and recorders and was a cat in Peter and the Wolf, it is such a shame, browsing through the site and not being able to remember things, although it does jog the memory. My mother died when I was fifteen and I think a lot of photo's etc., were lost then. I do have photo's of the family in and around Malta but none at my schools. Have returned on holiday with my daughter and have reminisced. My father was based at Grand Harbour. I can remember wonderful times at the Harbour and the Lido. My name was Lindsay McNeil Younger sister Janine Mcneil Older sister Sandra Mcneil Have printed off the school report by P Ross of 1961. Any information you have on my years would be greatly appreciated, meanwhile I will keep visiting. | |
| 179 | 12-06-2003 | DAPHNE YVONNE | WYE | hi i attended verdala 54/56 my name being daphne wye my sister also attended her name was rosina wye [nina] we returned to malta in 58/60 where i went to talhandaq and my sister returned to verdala. there she was in the brownies and the school quire. on the photo of the quoire dated 58 she is in the front row. as you can tell this e mailing is new to me being a late starter. | |
| 178 | 10-06-2003 | steven | silvio | very good | |
| 177 | 02-06-2003 | Derick | Henry | Born KGV Floriana 1948. To Scarborough UK 1949. Back to Malta 1958 - 1961. Verdala '58/60. First, Miss McMeeking. Second, Mr Jenkins. Fond memories:- School, friends, teachers and chums. Cricket - in that heat! The Marble pitch. Heat. Football & Sports in general. The wee library hut. Shady bits. The hours. The mad bus journey with the drivers competing and us kids egging them on! That most welcome water tap on the outside of our block. Those great comics we all used to swop. Getting free entry to Mr Jenkins dress rehearsals. Not so fond memories:- The 11+. The heat. I would be delighted to hear from anyone there at the time. I went back to Malta for the very first time in 2001 - yup, 40 years later! Needless to say I visited Verdala and it looked just as I remembered it. A strange but good feeling. | |
| 176 | 25-05-2003 | Davina | Eade | 1 was at verdala 58 to 60 then onto tala han dak It has been a real trip down memory lane for me.Meny a happy memory with miss Anne Rowe as my class and ballet teacher Babes in the wood was one of our performances at corridina best friends at that time were Jennifer Tipple, Anne Mcoy and Clodagh any contact with these would just be fabulous. My maiden name was Davina Taylor | |
| 175 | 24-05-2003 | Karl | Mallia | Hello | |
| 174 | 22-05-2003 | KARL | MALLIA | jien qieghed fi klassi 1c | |
| 173 | 25-04-2003 | Neil | Bennett | HI, Such happy memories seeing some of the old pictures and reconising some of the names. Was at the school for 4 months in 75 before going to Tal Handaq. | |
| 172 | 21-04-2003 | Helen | Townsend / Griffin | At Verdala 1958-1962. Interested in next reunion, particularly if in Malta! In touch with Marilyn Stalker and Andrew Stalker. Brother Keith Griffin ex Tal Handaq. | |
| 171 | 08-04-2003 | Belinda | Hayles Gledhill | At school 1961 to 1963 | |
| 170 | 31-03-2003 | Gillian | Leadbetter / Hawkins | If anyone remembers me from 1962-64 give me a call | |
| 169 | 13-03-2003 | Fiona | Kay | Hello, I attended Verdala from 1968 to 1971. Returning to the UK when I was 8yrs. I attended school in Cheltenham on my return and emigrated to Australia with my mother in 1977. Name was Fiona McKinnon in those days, quite a thrill to see a poem I wrote 35 years ago on a website. I also think that I am in the photo of a play in late sixties as the girl in the front row right hand side bears a huge resemblance to my daugher at the same age. You never know. Great website Regards Fiona
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| 168 | 02-03-2003 | Gillian | Stanley | What wonderful memories this site invokes! I was at Verdala 1957-1960 then went on to Tal Handaq where my father was a teacher! So many names and faces I remember. Where are Morag Williamson and Gillian Crawley???????? Mr Jenkins was an inspirational teacher and I was lucky enought to be in his class for all 3 years. I am now head of a school in Hants. I would love to hear from anyone who remembers me! | |
| 167 | 20-02-2003 | Keith | Woodcock | A bit of a shock seeing myself on the 1965 A Team phot...
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| 166 | 05-02-2003 | George | Readings | In Verdala 1960-62, then Tal Handaq 1962/3. As with many, enjoyed my time in Malta. Would be delighted to hear from anyone during that era. Have already contacted John Nicholas and Mr Why and received a contact from Liz Mardel. The site is an excellent idea. Thank you. | |
| 165 | 19-01-2003 | Karel | Doubleday | I would love to make contact with Ms Mitchell my infant school teacher and my friend Georgina Timms (65-68) | |
| 164 | 10-01-2003 | Stephen | Frost | Not sure what the name of school I attended in Luqua from 1957-1960 Dad was in Army so would I have come here? Do remember going home on bus with Dom Mintoffs daughter and being Toady in Wind in Willows.Also did a poem on stage Mcavity the Mystry Cat | |
| 163 | 28-12-2002 | Chris | Reynolds | I started school at Stella Maris Franciscan missionaries of mary school from 1961 to 63. I then moved to Verdala infant department in 1963. i was in form 15 the teacher was a J.M.Pitcher, i was then in form 9 in 1964 the form teachers name was Stewart. Unfortunatly we came back to England for a few years and returned to Verdala in 1968. I was in form 3C the teacher was D.P.Cleeve,i the moved to 4B the form teacher was J.M.Martin, i then moved to 4AP i think the teachers name was Perkins. I had a great time before going on to Tal Handaq. | |
| 162 | 21-12-2002 | Linda | Murphy | I would love to hear from anyone who was in the juniors from '74-77 when it closed. I had so many happy times Lin
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| 161 | 08-12-2002 | Nigel | Allfrey | Hi the picture with the Jellyfish nominally as Pied Piper is actually the By the Wind SAilor Jelly Fish Dancers. I have their names and the whole script of the play if anyone is interested (I played Sam, my sister, Lindy a Pastel Shrimp! | |
| 160 | 29-11-2002 | Marie | De lacy | Anybody know Susan....that went to Verdala 1960-1963 age 5-10 years. Dad worked in the Civil Service.
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| 159 | 27-11-2002 | David | Gamble | I was at Verdala schoolin the fifties. All I remember was the Headteacher Commander Jordan and the large hall. I think I remember a boy called Pengally. I think his first name was Roger. I cannot make the reunion on Saturday but would be pleased to hear from you as to how it wemt and if anybody remembers me!!! | |
| 158 | 27-11-2002 | Gillian | Leadbeatter(Hawkins) | I was at Verdala '62-'64 aged 8, my brother Peter was an infant there briefly, and my sister Susan was at Tal Handaq. We lived at 11b Ghar-id-dud St in Sliema. My dad was the dockmaster of the floating dock. I well remember the warm, oddly flavoured milk at break times, swimming races and climbing the nets. I loved Malta and have been back 5 times,I am an avid diver. Swimming at Tigne lido and Paradise bay were wonderful. Thanks for the web site. So many happy memories of being chaperone to my teen-aged sister as she hung out with the boys, listening to the juke-box outside Tante Palmiers on Sliema front. I blame her for my love of rock-n-roll. Does anyone remember Kevin Wolfe (my first love) or Nigel Phillips? have a good time on the 30th wish I could be there. | |
| 157 | 25-11-2002 | Ruth | Coombs | My twin sister Brenda and I were in the Ditch between the years 56 and 58. I have a photo of us with classmates and a sailor called Bill Bailey! I remember the sailors were very nice, they bought us Coka Colas. We had to take it in turns to make tea for the teachers in the tea room! I remember vividly playing jacks and setting up marble shies at lunch time. Happy days! | |
| 156 | 24-11-2002 | Francine | Billet | I was at Verdala in Miss Candy's class from 1957-59.Brother Jim was at Tal-Handaq. We lived off of St Julian's Court opposite the dockyard club. My friends were Pamela Salmon..Elen Gower..Jim's friends were Barry Gulleck..and David Tucker. This brings back so many memories Thanks | |
| 155 | 22-11-2002 | Ralph | Guy | What a surprise this site has been . Was at Verdala 58-60 ish then one year Tal Handaq. Names that spring to mind Miss Candy, Peter Fuller . A husband and wife team of teachers Hobson? Dobson? Was in love with Judy Nixon the lead in "Pied Piper" although shhe didn't know. Was in the chorus of Princesss Zara ? Older sibling went to Tal Handaq ,Jennifer Guy . Any one remember either one of us we'd like to hear. | |
| 154 | 21-11-2002 | Amanda | Rudkin | I was at Verdala '65 to '67/'68. I was 6 when I first arrived in Malta. I remember the school very well, steep hill up to the main grounds, the battered buses, watching shinty matches, playing marbles and one of my teachers Mrs Harkess and two best friends -Helen and Jane. I know Helen came from a large naval family. Does anyone remember the blue Naffi dinner tickets and the awful green pea soup served in white mugs that we were made to drink - only compensation was delicious fish and chips on Fridays! Do you remember the rafts off some of the beaches that used to get crowded and we all would run in unison from side to side to see how far we could tip them over? I was there during World Cup and getting free World Cup Willy badges from bars of nougat. I also remember lots of american sailors and their huge BBQs on the beaches - it all felt just so exotic. Does anyone remember the Reucroft family (Robin, Janice, Amanda, Simon and Peter)? | |
| 153 | 18-11-2002 | Nicola | Chapman | I would love to be in contact with anyone who was at school between 1966 to 1969 (I was 6 till 9 years old). I do not have a very good memory but I do remember going to Brownies at school, being in the deputy heads (I think his name was Mr Ross)class in 1969. I also attended the local dancing classes with many girls from school, the teachers twin boys also attended. I also remeber going to Pictures and roller skating on a saturday morning. My best friend at school was called Trudy Wells, she left in 1968 (I would love to be able to contact her but so far I have been unable). If you remember me please email me I would love to hear from you. | |
| 152 | 17-11-2002 | Roberta | Lowe / Murdoch | This site brings back some wonderful memories. I attended Verdala from 1959-1961 finishing in 4BJ. This class was taught by Miss Rowe; a great teacher. I remember Patricia Cracknell (with whom I lost touch with in the 1970s) and Elizabeth Bingley.Ah!Happy days | |
| 151 | 16-11-2002 | Pauline | Hargreaves | I am just learning how to do this and it is a slow process! I have been in touchwith the Headmaster of the present school Joe Huber and he has sent me some photos of the school. I was in Malta in July and September of this year - it has changed a bit!!!!Looking forward to the 30th.
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| 150 | 13-11-2002 | Douglas | Green | Attended Verdala School 1967-1970,Hawkins House.Broke my elbow falling off the climbing frame;spent a few days in Bighi Hospital. Races between school buses were fantastic!The Maltese only drive in the shade!Happy days. Won the 100 yards & sack race at sports day 1968. | |
| 149 | 08-11-2002 | Steve | Gwilliam | atended calcarra nursery, 1964-66, then verdala, 1971-72.Great school , so many happy memories. | |
| 148 | 05-11-2002 | Janice | Smith (nee Waite) | attended Verdala from 1964 - 1966 - don't know if I'm going to make the reunion, but will certainly try!!! | |
| 147 | 04-11-2002 | Peter | Miles | I am the son of the late Instructor Captain A.H. Miles Headmaster of the School from 1946, and was a pupil at Verdala at the age of seven in 1939 Good luck for the reunion which I will not be attending. Would you like a photograph of Princess Elizabeth's visit in 1951 ? | |
| 146 | 03-11-2002 | Adrian | Baker | I was at Verdala in 1954/55, my father serving as captain of RFA Eddycliff. I'm not sure which class I was in nor do I have strong recollections of class mates. I do remember however woodwork classes held in the dockyard to where we had to walk once a week. On visiting Malta in 1990 I found the school and took a photo of the old iron schoolgates rusty and neglegted but still carrying the title. Would be happy to hear from anyone who knew me. King regards Adrian
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| 145 | 29-10-2002 | Andrew | McLeod | What a wonderful and nostalgic experience - thanks to the site organisers.
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| 144 | 23-10-2002 | Trevor | Barter | It seams so long ago, but great to read the description of the visit....brings it all back. they say you remember the good times, i certainly remember Mr Woodhams and the steep hill. How about the water fights between the buses at the end of term? | |
| 143 | 12-10-2002 | Dianne | Kruczek | I was at Verdala 1964 - 66, Dianne Cooley & brother John. I remember Mr Ouseby & Mr Woodhams. Have enjoyed the site, and reminiscing! Found a surprise pic of me on the Brownie photo! I remember Christiane and Susan Withers! Well done on excellent site! | |
| 142 | 11-10-2002 | Madeleine | Branson (nee Pickett) | At Verdala 1958 - 1960. One of my teachers was Miss Batty but I'm afraid I can't remember my classmates names. I went to ballet classes and was a 'cloud' in something! Well I was quite young! Went back to Malta in August this year and with a sixth sense managed to find the school - I was surprised and very delighted, finding first the driveway and the circular bit at the top leading onto the playground - just like it used to be but with a couple of extra buildings. Hope to attend the reunion, along with a work colleague who I discovered also attended Verdale 1959-61 Phil North. Lots of lovely memories. | |
| 141 | 07-10-2002 | Carl | Eves | Went to Verdala between 1974 - 76. Had a brilliant time. Those photos of the school they brought back so many memories. I spent ages showing my kids where I used to play marbles,had sports day, my classrooms and where i had my first fight etc. Excellent site keep up the good work. | |
| 140 | 29-09-2002 | Madeleine | Adams | nee Madeleine Knight Would like to trace Marion Ellis, Julia Dobson, Anne Mintoff, Alison Greenaway Verdala 1956/9. Coming to reunion in Sussex? | |
| 139 | 27-09-2002 | Gill | Roberts(Stanley) | | |
| 138 | 25-09-2002 | Jenny | van Riet | Attended Verdala 1951 to 1953 as Jennifer Smith. My teachers in 1952 were Jean Seaward and Dinah Jessup. I now live in Australia. Have many fond memories of Malta/swimming/bus trips to school/boat trips at weekends etc. | |
| 137 | 22-09-2002 | Helen | Parker | I was born in Malta in '58. Went to Verdala '63-'69. My dad taught at Tal Handaq "55-'69. I was the tallest kid at Verdala with bright red hair. My sister Sadie was there too (3 yrs. older) What a great experience! I remember not so fondly warm goats milk, and hot sweaty bus seats, and so fondly,the assemblies, the pantomimes, marbles, sports day, pomegaranites by the bell tower, the Marsa club and fabulous swimming! Would love to hear from anyone that knew the Parkers...we were there 14 years! | |
| 136 | 19-09-2002 | stephen | nicholson | Since I received the email inviting me to the reunion in November, I have been on this site solidly. What a fantastic site - takes me back to the island that I remember with nothing but pleasure. I was at Verdala from January 1967 to May 1969. I was in St Vincent House. I remember being in Mr Woodham's class (4AW) in my last year. I remember being in the cubs where my mum was 'Hathi'. I remember being in the school football team (in goal) when we won the league under the guidance of Mr Perkins. Some of the names I recall are David Bancroft, Andre, Stephen Why, Paddy Boyle, John McIntyre, David Harkiss, Helen Tapson, Sue Smith, Madeline (Court?) and Stephen Foote. I remember 'Speedo' the driver on the bus home to St Julians. Anyone remember me? See you in NOVEMBER | |
| 135 | 19-09-2002 | Mary | Walker | I was at Verdala from 61-63. Mr Woodhams, as I see from others, was an amazing influence on me. A very dear man. I arrived having been at a 'dame' school and had learnt 'joined-up' writing as opposed to 'printing'. My hand writing was dreadful. However, he supported me strongly and when I won the 'progress' prize, he came especially to my home and presented it to me in a 'grand' ceremony in front of my parents, as I had been'off' school with a bug. I was in St.Vincent, and very proud too. I remember playing Cowboys and Indians in the playground, with the girls being the horses and the boys holding our sashes as reins I think my rider was called Paul, we were Indians I think. I also still feel guilty about one young boy, called Anthony (was it Bewley ?), when I was in Mrs Moore's class, he was always in trouble for untidy work etc, one sock up- one sock down, a real boy !! He 'fell in love' with me and sent me a beautiful love letter, very neat, and no mistakes etc and I still can't bear to think of it , I tore it up in front of his face ! All the work that represented ! What a little madam ! if you read this Anthony, I am really sorry. I met up with Vanessa Wright about 27 years ago in Alverstoke. We attended ballet together, I still have a photo of myself as a 'snowflake' in the Nutcracker in my sitting room. This site is lovely and stirs some lovely memories. very best wishes to all. | |
| 134 | 18-09-2002 | stephen | Nicky | Hello to anyone who remembers me. I was at Verdala from January 1967 to May 1969. I was in the school football team (in goal) in my last year when we won the league. Some of the names I remember are David Bancroft, Patrick Boyle, John McIntyre, Stephen Foote, Stephen Why, David Harkiss Helen Tapson and Susan Smith who - if my memory serves me right - got the same bus as me to school from St Julians (number 34). I loved my time at Verdala and have returned to Malta once on holiday to look up the old place. I would love to hear from anyone who remembers me. | |
| 133 | 18-09-2002 | Hazel | Cox | So very many happy memories - this is a dream come true for me. Would love to hear from anyone who remembers me. Anyone out there who played for the netball team, 1967? - we won everything! Well done on a fantastic site! | |
| 132 | 18-09-2002 | Helen | Birchenough | Apologies for mistake in e mail address. This is correct version! | |
| 131 | 18-09-2002 | Helen | Birchenough | At Verdala 1972-75. Teachers Miss Keyhoe,Miss Wilde and Miss Johnson. Remember Verdala as wonderful time. Does anyone remember singing Joseph musical? Now a teacher near Wolverhampton. | |
| 130 | 17-09-2002 | Pam | Sorensen (nee Cox) | Hi - just so pleased to find there is a website for ex Verdala pupils - so many good memories have been rekindled! | |
| 129 | 17-09-2002 | Peter | Sorensen | Great to see you I looked unsuccesssfully for a site last year! I was at Verdala in 1966-69, Drake House. I have some of the annual school publications coving that period. I also married a fellow ex-pupil. | |
| 128 | 14-09-2002 | Paul | Cawdron | Many fantastic memories rekindled when i found this site. Was at verdala 64-65 (I think!). Mr Woodhams was class teacher and I remember his science lesson creating a vacuum in a gallon can! We all sat spellbound as the can collapsed on itself!! Came second in relay race and still got certificate to prove it! Friends I remember are Christopher Cumper (we lived next door to each other in Birzebugia) and Chris I'll e mail you, Paul Gorman, sorry getting old and remember faces but not too many of the names. Does anyone remember me???? | |
| 127 | 13-09-2002 | Ivy | Jackson / Eaton | Hello to all who were at Verdala from 1953-57. What a great staff I had, coping with a constant change of pupils as families were always on the move. Making sure every child got home safely, finding one of the 36 buses waiting to take them to homes situated all over the island, was taken in their stride. I remember some of the parents objected to children wearing names and the number of the bus they needed. Chiefly this was to help a reception class teacher cope with 30 - 40 new entrants in what, for the 5 year old, must have been a quite bewildering experience as they had to be taken down through fortification walls to the waiting buses. I used to marvel the way these tiny tots coped - no parents then waiting for them at the gate - what trust in school organisation! (continued below) | |
| 126 | 13-09-2002 | Ivy | Jackson / Eaton | Part two) In 1957 the school had an extensive H.M.I. inspection. Quote from report - "The Infant Dept. of the R.N. School, Verdala, compares with the best infant schools in G.B." Thanks go to the dedicated staff who worked so hard. After this report the schemes of work for the school became blueprints for service schools in the Mediterranean Area. The school was subject to "Captain's Rounds" like any other naval establishment. I remember a criticism by a medical officer while on the rounds asking "Must the children sit round tables in groups - why not in straight lines where there'd be much less chance of droplet infection"!! So much for his knowledge of educational needs! My staff included - Alma Batty (Smith), May Smedley, Val Porter, Margaret Robinson, Nan Brittlebank, Betty Skinner, Pam Lee, Kathy Burke, Doreen Storey (Hart), Margaret Harris, Shirley Harris and Margaret Grant. Greetings to them and the children. I hope to be able to attend the reunion and look forward to meeting former staff and pupils again. | |
| 125 | 11-09-2002 | Nick | Worrall | Great fun and revived many happy memories
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| 124 | 06-09-2002 | Webmaster | Webmaster | Yes, the time has arrived for the first ever Verdala reunion. I am very pleased to announce that Christiane Morris has kindly agreed to arrange and co-ordinate the first reunion event. Christiane will be sending out invitations after the venue and date is finalised. As you may have seen through the on-line poll the majority of ex Verdalans reside on the South Coast of England. No prizes for guessing as to where logically and geographically the event will take place. The proposed date, yet to be confirmed, is Saturday 30th November 2002. Please keep your diaries free and begin spreading the word. I would personally like to thank Christiane for being so brave on taking up this quest. I'm sure that the gathering will be a great success and quite enlightening! You will be receiving an email invitation from Christiane out-lining the arrangements. If you've just stumbled upon this notification and if you have not registered at the Verdala and/or the Friends Reunited site please send your contact details directly to Christiane. Some ex Verdalans that you may still be in touch with may not be on the Internet. Please kindly notify/keep these individuals informed. KEEP A LOOK OUT ON THE SITE FOR DEVELOPMENTS. | |
| 123 | 25-08-2002 | Nigel | Allfrey | Hi 1964-66 It was a wonderful time for us all - marbles, playing kiss chase and the occasional piece of learning. I found the complete play of the By the Wind Sailor from Dec 1965, with cast list. ANyone who is interested in it, please email me. Singing 'I can't get no satisfaction' in the back of the school bus (lived in Sliema). Would love to contact anyone who remembers me, especially Helen Male (was) | |
| 122 | 24-08-2002 | John | Why | Staff, 1962 to 1970, would like to contact those who remember those days. | |
| 121 | 19-08-2002 | Neil | McCrindle | at verdala from 69-72.....like everyone else on here, i remember verdala as being a golden time. green uniforms in summer, grey in winter,living in paola and kalafrana. can't remember many names from my class.....only avril sharkey, whose ringlets made me weak at the knees even as an eight-year-old and another lassie, christine ?, ian lovelace, simon gwnfryn-evans....i remember mr why ( and being rather scared of him) and i think the headmaster was commander northey....i dropped in at verdala while on holiday about 10 years ago and was amazed at how small it was....it certainly seemed much bigger when i was a kid, with a playground that seemed to stretch forever...those buses too!....living in malta then was the happiest time of my life i think | |
| 120 | 16-08-2002 | John | Nicholas | I'm off to Malta in a few weeks time, second time this year. Parents are still there living in Pieta! I remember Tigne beach, roller skating at Manoel Island,the Naafi, Crazy bus drivers, playing marbles behind the rope net, sliding down Balluta Shute, relays against St Andrew and Luqa schools, failing my 11 plus, back seats at the Majestic cinema and the chip shop in Tower Hill. Does anyone else? | |
| 119 | 16-08-2002 | John | Nicholas | Hi, I was at verdala from 1958 to 1961/2. I think I was in 4B before going to Tal-Handaq for a further 6 years. I remember Mr. Ross (deputy Head) and Adrian Newman and Valerie Duncan were friends. Can anyone jog my memory a bit more? | |
| 118 | 09-08-2002 | Jim | Brechin | Fantastic site, full of memories. Some of these were vague but comments on the site have prompted flashbacks. Can't remember any classmates but my teacher was Mr. Ross. | |
| 117 | 09-08-2002 | Vera | North / Head of infants | I have been persuaded to sign in and say I have wonderful memories of Verdala, especially the lone palm tree and hundreds of children careering round the playground all looking so suntanned and happy! Good wishes to you all! | |
| 116 | 05-08-2002 | John | Nicholas | I was at Verdala from 1958 to 1962 leaving in class 4B then Tal-Handaq to 1968. In Drake house. Cannot remember many names, Adrian Newman and Valerie Duncan come to mind. Anyone remember me? | |
| 115 | 05-08-2002 | Kevin | Taylor | I started school at Verdala at the age of 4 in 1965 and left in 1967. I lived at Marshall Court in Gzira, don't remember too much other than the school buses racing eachother every morning. | |
| 114 | 05-07-2002 | Paul | Readings | Leaving Verdala in '63 was both exciting, because I was returning to the UK and also quite disheartening to know I was leaving many newly formed friendships behind. I am sorry to say that it is only recently this year,that I have been in touch with one family who left at the same time as my family. Apart from that, contact has been zero. It is with pleasure that I read the notes on this site which remind me of just how lucky I was to have experienced the attention and close community of Verdala. No other school left me hoping to return. Some day I will.
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| 113 | 26-06-2002 | Steven | Lock | Having looked at the 1964 cubs photo I would like to add my name to the list. I am front row no. 6 and directly behind me is Anthony Simpson. I have fond memories of a great school with disciplinarians as our tutors. Mr. Why comes to mind. I will regularly visit this wonderful site. I am living in N>Devon UK | |
| 112 | 17-06-2002 | gary | fox | a great beginning keep improving your site! | |
| 111 | 12-06-2002 | steve | gwilliam | Great site! Met up with my best mate for the 1st time in 30 yrs!, Vincent Ramsey. I had a great time! I hope other people meet their best friends too! | |
| 110 | 11-06-2002 | Lesley Ann | Gibson (nee Brown) | Just to let anyone know that my e-mail address has changed to the above. Apologies to anyone who has been trying to contact me. | |
| 109 | 10-06-2002 | Madeleine | Adams nee Knight | Living in England after many years in Rhodesia. Married with two daughters. | |
| 108 | 10-06-2002 | Stephen | Westacott | Excellent site and, as everyone says, how the memories flood back of Verdala 57-60. Nelson House. I remember particularly Miss Stinton with her big floral dresses (I think I was a little in love!) and the excellent Roy Jenkins - the kind of teacher that the Govt adverts try and tell you about.I was in at least two oif the pantos and am quietly embarrased by the photos on the site of me as Hans in Pied Piper and as some sort of officer in the sci fi thing. I was Captain/Vice of Nelson in 59/60 serving with Angela someone. Also recall Anne Mintoff, Marion Ellis and my best fried Michael Beattie. Sound trite but - keep up the good work. | |
| 107 | 09-06-2002 | Lindsay | Freeman | Iwas at Verdala from 1955-57, leaving at the age of 7. Fond memories of the school and being a snowflake in the pantomime!! | |
| 106 | 04-06-2002 | Roger | Jones | This is indeed an excellent site. | |
| 105 | 26-05-2002 | clint | muscat | hi. i'm clint and i have seen your website. it is very nice. i have to tell you that i'm student at the same school you went when you were kids. nothing has been changed. just one thing. we have put a tuck shop at that big white building. now we use it as the form 2 block. if you want some information about the school nowadays you can send me emails. thak you | |
| 104 | 24-05-2002 | Mark | Uttley | Was only at Verdala for about a year,in Mrs Hortons class.My younger brother Graham was also at the school & thinks he is in the climbing frame photo.We lived initially in Sliema,and then in Gunlayer St,Floriana.My father was a Royal Marine,and Q.M.S of Zulu troop 45 commando Imtarfa.My brother and I revisited the school in summer 2000.Have the classrooms been altered?because they seem very small now. | |
| 103 | 20-05-2002 | Chris | MacLorg | Hi Verdalans ! I only spent one year at Verdala (Oct '56 to July '57). I was in Miss Candy's class (4C) and hated it ! I found her fussy and silly. Miss Butters was another teacher I remember, and she was very kind.I also remember Miss Veasey, and Commander Painter. Although I hated the lessons, I loved the school surroundings. Can't remember many of my classmates - an American - Terry Woodward, and a boy called Anderson. When I transferred to Tal Handaq everything came right, and I spent the happiest 18 months of my school life there !! Dad was on HMS Forth, berthed at Msida Creek - mother swan to her submarines ! Anybody else out there whose Dad was on the ship at the same time ? We lived initially at Fklat 5, 81A Tower Road, Sliema, then at St Julians Court, Ballutta. | |
| 102 | 16-05-2002 | Carol | Sibbald | It's wondeful to see something back from your childhood. When you travelled around so much, you had lots to gain, but also lots to forget. I wish I could remember the names of people I was at school with. It is sites like this that stir those memories and he me to remember. | |
| 101 | 09-05-2002 | Derek | Hollebon | 1964 clubs- I was in the back line, forth from the left. | |
| 100 | 06-05-2002 | Sheila | Trudgett | | |
| 99 | 04-05-2002 | Linda | Bishop (nee Broadbent) | Thanks to Martin Powell for finding me and directing me here. Great web site and thanks. My years Autumn term 1960- Autumn term 62. I was 8 years old when I joined in 1C then 2B, 3B. I remember my teachers: Miss Townsend, Mr Jenkins. Fond memories one of my best schools. Only remember two class friends: Caroline Duffield and Druscilla Webb. Where are they now? I remember the Peter and the Wolf production - I think I left Malta after this. We lived in Sliema, St Margarets Road and then above the Golden Harvest along Tower Road. I have kept my school reports and Calender for 1961-62. I'll post this to the web site. Hope to hear from others. | |
| 98 | 30-04-2002 | Philip | Clark | Extremely fond memories of my time spent at Verdala from aged 5 in 1966 to 7 in 1968. The only name I can recall at present is fellow student Fiona Watson. Hope to discover more through this web site. Brilliant! | |
| 97 | 30-04-2002 | Denise | Cousins | Found this site by accident and look forward to sending some photos so that 1970's have some info on them | |
| 96 | 27-04-2002 | Nicola-Jayne | Chapman | Would love to get in contact with Trudy Wells who was my best friend between 1966 and 1968 | |
| 95 | 26-04-2002 | Alana | Cantwell | | |
| 94 | 25-04-2002 | steve | gwilliam | I went to Verdala in 1971, my best mate was Vincent Ramsay, had to leave early in 1972, because of Mintof.My name at school was steve wrenn. | |
| 93 | 18-04-2002 | Karen | Sutherland | For all of you that were in Mr Collins class in 73/74 have a look in the uploaded pictures for 1970 - see if you recognise yourself or anybody else - and if you can, remind me or the surnames!! I was also in the netball team mentioned earlier - though do not have any photos - how did we do ? I do not remember winning many matches! | |
| 92 | 17-04-2002 | Be | Mardel | Hello from San Francisco, California! I am a cousin of Liz Mardel in England and she introduced me to your handsome web site. I spent a week in Malta in the 70's and have never forgotten its charm and beauty. I am a Religious of the Sacred Heart -- St. Julian is our school in Malta. | |
| 91 | 17-04-2002 | Phil | Pitcher | Verdala infant 1957 - 9, 5 to 7 years old. As the song goes - thanks for the memories | |
| 90 | 15-04-2002 | Lois | Reed | Looking forward to seeing some names which might ring a bell. I think I was there 55/56.
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| 89 | 14-04-2002 | Richard | Hodge | Hi, I was a pupil at Verdala 1957 to 1958. Liz Mardell has passed info through my mother that a peice I wrote in 1958 is on "Junior Writings". Apart from "why on earth should someone save one of my essays" my question is " how do i access it?". Thankyou for this website, it brings back many happy memoreis. | |
| 88 | 12-04-2002 | Peter M.F. | Rea | Was at Verdala from 1959 to 1960 with brother Ralph and sister Marion.
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| 87 | 08-04-2002 | Kev | Bradford | This site has brought back many a happy memeory of my childhood in Malta and especialy the good times I had at Verdala | |
| 86 | 29-03-2002 | Karen | Percival | Spent my first years of infant school at Verdala, 1965-1967 Can't remember much about it. I know I was in Hawkins group. Was in L Charleworths class to begin with and finished in Miss Mitchells class. Had a friend named Geraldine Maguire and lived in St Julians Court.
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| 85 | 26-03-2002 | Gerard | Hawkes | I'm stunned, so many memories, but so few names that I remember.I was at Verdala from 1952-1954, and loved it. Playing "marbles" hanging on the Nets, carving bits of Sandstone, and "Sunburn" oh I remember the "Sunburn" - no Factor 15 in those days, just blisters. Even enjoyed the "Cubs". The only teacher I remember was Miss Robertson, and the "Head", Cdr Bellamy. I was at sea with his son in B.I.S.N.Co. Regards to all Gerry Hawkes | |
| 84 | 22-03-2002 | Sam | Cookson | I don't remember anybody at Verdalla! I was 5 years old and was there between 1960 - 1962. If you dont recall me you may remember my elder brother Danny. I was simply amazed to discover this website, I was staggered that so many people went to Verdalla! I was beginning to think my brother and I were the only ones!! It certainly brought back many happy memories, milk shakes for breaktime, khaki uniforms and crazy maltese bus drivers!! | |
| 83 | 21-03-2002 | Denise | Cousins | Interesting looking at everyones comments.I have quite a lot of photos from Verdala from 1973-1976.In touch occasionally with Trudy Curtis.Any of the netball team still out there?
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| 82 | 19-03-2002 | Melanie | Usher | It was always a source of constant amusement to my parents, that because I was so small, my tie hung down below the hem of my dress! I was in the "red" house. Which house was that - can anyone tell me? I can't remember which colours represented which house name -I just knew that on sports day, I had to run for my life! I remember the regular checks of hair & nails by the nurse too! Even more disgustingly, I remember her ringing my Mum and telling her not to panic, but that I had nits and that as soon as I came home from school that night, they must be treated. My Mum picked me up from school immediately and I didn't go back for a week! Oh, the Shame of it! I was in a class with Maria Holland, Fiona Macleod, Gillian Scriven, Amanda somebody - wish I could remember her name. I have contacted Fiona and would love to contact Maria. Anyone know her by any chance? | |
| 81 | 19-03-2002 | Melanie | Usher | What a fab site! I have always said my happiest childhood memories were when we lived in Malta. I was there from 67 - 69. I was a mere baby when I started at Verdala. Infants - 1st year I guess - I am sure that a Miss Todd/Todds was one of my teachers. Does anyone know that to be correct or is it a figment of my imagination? I remember stories of a ghost "The Blue Lady" or it could have been "Grey"!, walking between two particular classrooms. The older kids frightened us little ones to death & on one occasion, even dressed up as the "coloured" lady! Had my first kiss by a boy call Timothy at the ripe old age of 6! I have a year book - must dig it out and put on some more piccys. I thought I was in love with an older boy called David something - could have been Harkis? Not that he knew I even existed - he was in year 4 something! | |
| 80 | 17-03-2002 | Rachel | Wilkinson / Webb | What a wonderful site, I've just spent a couple of hours back in the sixties, also myself on the 64-65 Brownies photo. Great memories, I must look out my old pics! | |
| 79 | 14-03-2002 | John | Derrick | A fantastic site and well done. All those old memories come flooding back. Time has elapsed and names forgotten but momories and experiences gained whilst at the school between 62 and 65 are treasured for ever. | |
| 78 | 14-03-2002 | Janet | Merriman / Witcher | Attended Verdala from 1952 to 1955. Also attended Tal Handaq from 1958 to 1961. My brother John, also attended. I now live in Adelaide, South Australia and have done so since mid 60s. | |
| 77 | 05-03-2002 | Martin | Shaw | Hi everyone, I was not at Verdala, but attended Luqa Primary and Tal Handaq. I am grateful to the guest book for providing links to siblings that attended Tal Handaq when I was there. Thankfully I was able to contact Christianne Morris, whos' father was my 1st Form teacher. Looking into ones past through this Crystal ( Net)ball can be rewarding. If anyone knows of a site for Luqa School please let me know. Thanks Martin | |
| 76 | 04-03-2002 | Chris | Jenkins | Where are they? So far three members of Class 4AJ of 1963/4 (very ably presided over by Ken Radford)have signed on: Myself, Jim Woodhams and Jane Radford. I have seen Paul Rutter's name at FriendsR and have communicated with him. Jim Woodhams, is also in touch with Richard King. There are many more out there. Does anybody know the whereabouts of: Nick Holloway (last heard of as a senior Food Technologist at M&S circa 1984); Jan Walters; Sandra Clark, Cathy Owen, Jonathan Edwards (tall lad, red-haired); Caroline Trubshaw; Ken Gadd; Michael Deas; Alan Wilder; Kelvin Holland, to name just a few? Look forward to hearing from you. Chris Jenkins | |
| 75 | 26-02-2002 | Karen | Sutherland / Stewart | What a trip down memory lane. I was attended Verdala in 1973/74 and was in Mr Collins class. My brother Iain was also there at the same time (can't quite remember which class but he is three years younger than me)Of all my school memories (and being a child of a serviceman I went to a few!!)This is the school I remember with most fondness. I have some photos of the whole class and of other people, some of the names escape me now plus somewhere - probably still with my parents I have some other bits and bobs from my time there. I will get the photos scanned on this weekend and send them in and search out the rest. I would love to know what has happened to all the people in my class. The things I most remember are making kites (not sure why!) - a school variety show. Playing in the recorder group. One of the mini buses crashing on the way home from school one day - I think there were one or two nasty injuries. I seem to remember one or two in our class being off for a while. | |
| 74 | 25-02-2002 | Steve | Why | My Dad - John Why - who was a member of staff from 1962-70, forwarded me your website details. What a trip down Memory Lane! Well done, and keep up the great work. I was at Verdala from 1963-69, and appear in your "Cubs 66-67" picture, seated at M-1. Those wonderful days are never to be forgotten and, indeed, have driven me to live forever under the sun - now living in Hawaii. I am sure Dad and Mum are now busy in the UK searching for pictures to send. It will be good to see whoelse signs up. Best regards - Steve Why | |
| 73 | 21-02-2002 | Greta | Cantwell / Hamlett | I have loved looking through this site. My discovery of it has coincided with a recent 'lifestory-writing' exercise, and it has been wonderful to know that my memories are also other peoples'. I look forward to contacting anyone who remembers me; and please keep adding pictures - none of ours have survived the moves since 1957! | |
| 72 | 20-02-2002 | Peter | Prictoe | I was at this school, then called the Dockyard School, from 1934 to 1938. A few years ago I met Josephine Ellis-as she was when a child but I regret to say she has now died. her brother Patrick also lived in the Portsmouth area. Last December I visited Malta and found the school gates still there and the anchor badge but the name has changed as it is in the Maltese educational system. | |
| 71 | 15-02-2002 | Martin | Ebbens | I and my sister Shirley attended Verdala 1958 - 1961. This site has brought back many fond memories, in particular the photo gallery. Thanks Martin Ebbens | |
| 70 | 13-02-2002 | Vivian | Wightman / James | The site certainly brings back memories. There's an awful lot of background about which I had absolutely no idea. | |
| 69 | 07-02-2002 | Jan | Griffiths / Armstrong | Hi back in 1966 I was Janice Griffiths my brother is in the photo of the 1966 football team. We lived in Kalafrana and unfortunately had to leave when the goverment requested the forces to go. | |
| 68 | 06-02-2002 | David | Plowright | Hello, I've really enjoyed reading the memories on this site, and remembering the many fun things we did at Verdala, especially the climbing nets and marbles (remember the shoe boxes with cut out goals. If your marble went in you won whatever number was over the goal). Some of the names seem familiar, but none are conclusive. I was there from 1955-58, so it's pretty hard to remember. I found a photograph of me and three of my sisters, Janice, Susan, and Irene (all Plowrights then) in our school uniforms. When I figure out how my scanner works I'll add it to the gallery. One name I do remember is John Lockhart. He had a sister, Carol maybe? Hope to hear from you. Best wishes, Dave Plowright in the wild and wonderful hills of West Virginia!
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| 67 | 05-02-2002 | Peter | Dearing | At Verdala 1961-1963 if my memory serves me right.
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| 66 | 26-01-2002 | Stuart | Lundy | After seeing this site I managed to get hold of a couple of old school magazines (1969 & 1970) from my parents and scan them. I thought it might be a good idea to knock up a quick web site, in my fathers name, in order to display them, so if you fancy a read, then go to: http://mike-lundy.portland.co.uk/index.html (The web site is sometimes unavailable, but hit refresh a fe times and it should appear). Regards Stuart Lundy | |
| 65 | 23-01-2002 | Julian | Hayward | Oops, here's the link: http://www.education.gov.mt/sport/cottonera_sports_complex_photogallery.htm | |
| 64 | 23-01-2002 | Julian | Hayward | Following on from Neil's comments, visit this URL to see the latest picture of what our old school looks like at the moment. | |
| 63 | 23-01-2002 | Neil | Booth | I was looking at the Maltise Government website and saw the proposal for the Cottonera Sports Complex which is to be built on the site of the school playing fields.I hope the Skinks find a new place to live.I think the rest of the old school buildings are to remain intact,the complex is to have Indoor bowls,Tennis,Handball,Basketball courts but sadly no Marbles arena. | |
| 62 | 21-01-2002 | Walter | Attard | I attended RN School Verdala from 1961 - 1964. I think I was in Nelson House but unforunately cannot remember any of my school friends. I still have a few school reports which I will try to send. I would be happy if anyone who remembers me send me an E Mail. By the way, I was the only Maltese in my class. | |
| 61 | 20-01-2002 | Pauline | Garraty now Fenton | Minshull..In an attempt to jog memories of anyone visiting the site it might be useful to mention the second name of my parents which was different to mine..Brian and Iris Minshull, I also had a small brother Kim. Rather than send me to Haldaq when I was eleven, my parents sent me to the local Maltese private Convent School in Vittoriosa. From reading everyone's submissions about Haldaq I obviously missed a great deal of fun!! | |
| 60 | 17-01-2002 | Julian | Hayward | What a wonderful site! I attended Verdala between July 1968 and January 1972 (a significant political event). Arguably my happiest times were when I was at this school. I felt compelled to add something after seeing a picture with Vincent Ramsey's name. I was in his class. I am now a software engineer working in London. Julian | |
| 59 | 16-01-2002 | Peter | Lant (Plant) | 1957-59 I lived the terrors of Miss Rowe in the 3rd year down in the ditch (and she never gave me my pencil sharpener). But the bright side was if the duty cook in the barracks was friendly you could beg bread pudding. Went on to Mr Ross' class in the fourth year back in the main school but with no bread pudding. Good to see the progarnmme for the Pied Piper in 1958. I was a sailor rat and am searching for a photo to put on the site. What a good one! | |
| 58 | 15-01-2002 | Tronie | Brown | My sister (Lesley)and I (Tronie) used to live in Malta and attend this school in the 1960's (late). I will have to really think of some names to put together on this website here! Is Philip Kitson around? | |
| 57 | 12-01-2002 | R | Stevenson | What a site this is for bringing back memories. I dug out an old autograph book to see if there were any names in it that I compare on site. So far not many. i did recognise myself in the Nelson football team in Chris Jenkins album though. I also have in name in by autograph book! | |
| 56 | 09-01-2002 | Chris | Ruffley | Attended Verdala between 1957 and 1959. Class teacher was Mr Ross and a member of White House. White House seems to have become St Vincents | |
| 55 | 08-01-2002 | Neil | Booth | I can remember there was a large shell from a ships (I think it was black) gun outside the main block. I recall that under the shell was a time capsule, was this ever opened ? does any one know what became of it and what was in it ?,is it still there ? . Was this just a figment of my young imagination.???????.......Too many questions. | |
| 54 | 08-01-2002 | Chris | Bracey | Well what awonderful site. The memories flood back. Now I am off to find photos! | |
| 53 | 08-01-2002 | christine | johnston | i was at school here (I called it Tal Handaq) from 1972 -74 I was in the 6th form doing A levels - I have not heard the name of anyone I recognise - my friends and Gill and Lynne lived in Sliema and we used to frquent a brilliant nightclub at St. Julians -name escapes me - I studied English and History. **Note- Christine advised to divert to the Tal Handaq site(verdala webmaster). | |
| 52 | 08-01-2002 | Linda | Cooper | Grateful thanks for this website. Had not envisaged the possibility that I would be able to share my wonderful memories of Verdala with anyone. Attended 1953/57 (Nelson house)as my father worked at Dingli. Stayed in Rudolph Lane and Caledonian Mansions Tigne. I too remember Miss Vasey & Mrs Farrugia. Also nostalgic memories - famous net, exercise bars, tuck shop and after-school ballet lessons. Special thanks to Mick Cook for class photo 1B.J 1954. | |
| 51 | 06-01-2002 | Mary | Todd (now Briggs) | I was at Verdala from 1958 to 1961 and have many happy memories. My teachers were Miss Watson, Mrs Farugia and Rex Carroll but my family were friendly with a lot of the other teachers and we kept in touch for many years after, especially Jack Ousbey and Liz McMeeking (Mardel). We have been back to Malta twice and it never seems to change! | |
| 50 | 06-01-2002 | Lesley Ann | Gibson (Brown) | I was told about the website from a family friend. Like me, his daughter used to go to Verdala in the 60's. I went there for about 4-5 years and was very happy there. We went from Malta to Kenya and my parents are still there. I live in Leicestershire and would be very interested to hear from anybody who went to Verdala at the same time. | |
| 49 | 03-01-2002 | Samantha | Oakley | oooh the pantp photo is brill, any from Jack and the bean stalk?? | |
| 48 | 30-12-2001 | Penny | Failes (Tucker) | It's been just great reading everyone's reminscences of Verdala - I'm hoping Miranda Sharp logs on soon as we were joint winners of Miss McMeeking's Bell Book Project competition and it would be lovely to catch up with her after all these years! I live in Australia now. | |
| 47 | 29-12-2001 | Judy | Walters | Thanks to those who've got this site together - have I been on a nostalgia trip reading all those reminiscences! We lived in Malta for 7 years [my dad taught at Tal Handaq] and it was a wonderful place to grow up. As well as the warmth and friendliness, I think its size was in proportion to a child. We arrived in 1961 when I was 6. When I first saw those small windows with bars in the school bus park, I thought they were the classrooms. They turned out to be the old prison windows and our classrooms were a bit more modern! I was in top infants and can't remember my teacher's name but I remember Vera North, the Infants headmistress. Commander Sumnall was the headmaster of the whole school and he looked like Prince Phillip. There were portraits of the Queen and Prince Phillip in the school hall: I could see one was Commander Sumnall; I just couldn't see the likeness to Miss North in the other one. In the juniors, I think my teachers were Miss Page/Mrs Robinson [who hit me with a ruler for daydreaming instead of doing arithmetic!], Mr Jenkins, Mr Powell and Mr Woodhams.Several of you have mentioned John Why and I have fond memories of him: I had no skills in music but lots of enthusiasm and he rewarded that. Someone mentioned the school pantomime, "The By The Wind Sailor" - I was Princess Coral in that when I was in the 4th year juniors. Don't queue up for autographs! I'd like to trace my friends Luzi Rodriguez, John Cole and Kerrie Cunningham. I live in New Zealand now and I think my experience of living in Malta as a young child helped me emigrate from England. | |
| 46 | 27-12-2001 | Steve | Mathews | Attended the school 58/9 in Mr Ross' class with Laraine Penn, Colin Beeston, Geoffrey Edgell (his dad was a teacher at Tal Handaq, Chris Ruffley, Keith Hardy, Teresa Gleddow, Ann Pennington, Carol Burgess, David Tirrard, Gordon Trigg, Jenny Goldsack, Steve Howick. My sister Carol 5 years my senior went to Tal Handaq as I did later. Lived in Princess Flats, still standing as are both schools. Now live near Southampton. | |
| 45 | 23-12-2001 | Liz | Mardel(McMeeking) | Submission:Page Two of Two. I have colour slides of the pantomimes of 1957 - 61 and the musical 'Princess Zara'if I can find out how to get them onto this site! Phill Rose mentioned the overflow classrooms in the old barracks ('The Ditch') - dark, tunnel-like rooms where the lights were on permanently and which had as their far walls the 8ft 3in thick bastion (2.5mtrs in today's money). (We'd measured the depth of our windowsill from the classroom edge back to the glass of the tiny arrow-slit window. It would never have passed today's health and safety regulations!) The years in Malta must have been a memorable time for most children and staff. They were for me – I met my husband Joe (a Navy Works civil engineer) there! Everything except the island itself was larger than life – the sun was hotter, the playground more vast, the harbours and the ships more spectacular, the schoolchildren more numerous (as well as more adaptable!), the architecture more distinctive, friendships more important (away from our wider families) school transport more chaotic, festas noisier and history more palpable than anything most of us were used to! This site is bringing it all back, many thanks for it. I look forward to reading everyone's reminiscences. | |
| 44 | 23-12-2001 | Liz | Mardel(McMeeking) | Submission:Page One of Two (Notice amended from Nov 3rd). Am I really the first former member of staff to find this site (apart from Roy Jenkins) or are the others sensibly keeping their heads down?! I taught in the junior school from 1957-61 and still keep in regular touch with the (former) Misses Batty, Watson, Kernahan, Stinton, Townsend, Whitelaw and North as well as with Mrs Eaton who preceded Vera North as head of the infants and former Navy Works families including the Hodges, Andrews, Todds and Hargreaves. Living as we do in a naval area several former Verdalans have turned up in my life in various guises. Hilary Bain was one of my daughter Kate's teachers. She asked me whether the playground was really as big as she remembered it as an infant, (most definately,I reassured her!) One of Kate's friends is the niece of Philip Colley from my class of '58 and (Dr) Jennifer Rowden was supervising an alzheimer's drug trial in which my husband took part. Penny Tucker entertained Kate at her home in Australia. I've also come across David Pickett, Linda Morrell, Martin Powell and Judy Rutledge among others.I have colour slides of the pantomimes of 1957 - 61 and the musical 'Princess Zara'if I can find out how to get them onto this site! | |
| 43 | 20-12-2001 | Vincent | Ramsey | A memory jogged!! I also remember the strange positions we adopted also when the bell sounded - positions which often included kids hanging upside down from the climbing ropes. Verdalans were always a weird lot!! | |
| 42 | 20-12-2001 | Billy | Booth | I can remember freezing in strange possitions when the school bell rang at the end of playtime, some of the poses we adopted were very comical, what a laugh why don't more schools adopt such silly rules? | |
| 41 | 19-12-2001 | Jane | Jurasinska nee Masters | Great to be able to say high to those who remember me.I joined in 1962 was in Mr King's transition class for two weeks and then on to 3b and Meg Townsend's class, she went home to Wembley anyone know any more. Remember John Why the music man, also Lt.Cdr Ross. As for class mates Alan Evans, Robert Ross, Felicity Kendall and so on. Hope to find out more soon. | |
| 40 | 17-12-2001 | Jo | Woodall | My family spent many years in Malta - 1950-53, 1956-59, 1965-68, & 1969-72 when Mintoff 'asked' the British to leave.My elder brother, Alan, attended Verdala from 50-53 & I did from 56-59;my younger brother, Larry, spent a couple of terms there in 59. We all went on to Tal-Handaq & have so many happy memories of our time spent in Malta. Our father worked at Dingli. My favourite bit of Verdala was the rope-net & I remember being upside-down for most of the time. The only teacher's name I can recall is Mrs Farrugia & that's probably because she had a strong Scottish accent & a Maltese name! I know Ken Radford - because I married his son David, whom I met at Tal-Handaq in 1966, {we divorced in 1977}. Friends I remember are Ann Grigg, Peter Mahoney, Russell Winterbourne, Anne & Ian Pennington, Sharon Neilan, & Ann Mintoff was in my class. We lived in Testaferrata Street & then moved to the new flats called Princess Margaret Flats nearby. Anybody remember them? They had a wonderfully smooth surface on the ground floor - perfect for rollerskating | |
| 39 | 17-12-2001 | David | Plowright | Would love to get in touch with some of my former classmates. Lived at Rinela Married Quarters from 1955 until 1958. Also attended Verdala for that same time period. Now live in the wild and wonderful hills of West Virginia. Hope to hear from someone. Best wishes to all, Dave Plowright | |
| 38 | 16-12-2001 | Neil | Booth | Does anyone remember me, Neil Booth or my brother William (Billy) Booth we were at Verdala from spring 1972 - Autumn 1974 my brother also went to Tal Handaq if so let me know it would be great to hear from you. | |
| 37 | 13-12-2001 | Chris | Cumper | I attended R.N.S. Verdala from 1965 to 67 and have many memories, including the often exciting school bus trips, marbles behind one of the classrooms, toy car racing in the playground, & a host of other stuff. | |
| 36 | 12-12-2001 | Chris | Noonan | What a blast from the past! I have very fond memories of my times in Malta, especially from Verdala. I had Mr King as my teacher for the two years that I was there('66-'68). He helped instill a love for learning that I did not realise at the time. I still have the astronomy book purchased to help with one of the projects he set us. I remember marble alley at the back of the music block, Mr Why putting his fist through a tambourine whilst accompanying Holst Mars. Does anyone else remember the snow in the middle of summer one year. Enough got caught on the upstairs windows to make some snowballs which were heaved about class. I was one of the boys that in 67-68 got permission to do girls games(they finished earlier and were better company) and made a total hash of playing netball. Brendan Curtain and David Reynolds were two of the others. And don't forget the ghosts, warm milk and sly fags in the playing fields. | |
| 35 | 11-12-2001 | Steve | Burns | Part Two of Two messages. And in 3A and 4A, I was lucky again to be taught by Mr Woodhams, probably the best teacher I ever had and possibly the greatest single influence of my childhood. He had time for everyone, he talked to you and listened to what you had to say. He also replied to you, always thoughtfully, never in a condescending "adult" manner, and he taught me much about the way the world is. Sad indeed to hear he passed away a few years later, as I would have loved to have met up with him again in adult life. Other Verdala memories - music lessons from the unforgettable Mr Why, the Marbles crazes that came and went every couple of months for no reason ("hit it once and you win it"!), the school Nurse; the Christmas Panto ("The Magic Nutcracker", "Old Hobb's Magic Stick" and "The Tale of the By-the-Wind Sailor" - I was never in any of them, but I can still remember some of the songs), the rush down the drive for the buses home (I was on "Bomb" 38), my best pals Nicholas Brady (earlier on) and Paul Whittaker (later days), plus loads of others. We came home to Scarborough in '67, and, though my family went back to Malta for another three years from 1975, I have never returned. Anyone who remembers me, please get in touch - I won't turn up on your doorstep or anything, but it would be nice to hear how you're getting on. | |
| 34 | 11-12-2001 | Steve | Burns | One of Two messages. We lived in Malta from September 1963 to March 1967. Verdala was overwhelming at first, it felt huge indeed, that playground seemed to go on for ever. There were well over 1000 kids, and it must have been very intimidating to a 7-year-old. I was briefly in Mr Ousbey's Reception Class, then 1AJ, with Mrs Pitcher for a couple of months, later Miss Mutch, a most formidable lady. I'm sure she was a good teacher, but my only memories of the time are of trying to keep out of her way. In 2AJ, we had Mr King, a teacher who made me appreciate for the first time that school wasn't somewhere you went because you had to, it could actually be interesting in itself. | |
| 33 | 10-12-2001 | Keith | Wigglesworth | Great site! Was at Verdala between '64 and 66(or 7), can't remember which house though. Many memories of the school, football matches, afternoon clubs (seamanship and ballet!!) playing marbles, sports days, keeping skinks in our desks, Royal Marines Beating the Retreat etc. Am in the '66 football 'B' team, back row, 3rd from left. Have the original photo (somewhere)with everyones names on and others. Recognise a lot of the names mentioned on the site. | |
| 32 | 08-12-2001 | Pauline | Fenton | Feedback: What a great time I've had visiting the Verdala website - I've thoroughly enjoyed the rush of memories, each page reminded me of old playmates, teachers, games and events and most precious of all, my childhood years living in Malta.I attended Verdala for one year in 1955 when I was 7, and although my memories are rather flimsy I clearly remember learning to read books on Dick and Dora, Janet and John.My family lived in Vittoriosa and in 1958 we returned to live there again until 1960. At school the class teacher was Mr. King, I remember him as kind and encouraging, he took our class photo which I hope to post on the site.The class consisted of 22 pupils, but only 6 were girls so a good time was had by all.The names of some of the boys were....Derek Granger, Donald ?, Barry ?, Desmond ?, Martin?, there were also 2 Alans and 2 Stephens.The girls were Linda Parker, Mary White, Sandra Harding, Susan ?, Annette ?, and myself Pauline Garraty. I have warm and positive memories of clambering over the rope climbing frame, playing jacks on the veranda outside the clssroom of 4c2, and winning my heat of 100yds sprint on sports day. On one memorable occasion I found myself along with several others in the girls toilets checking under our arms for any growth of hair, to my astonishment and delight, I found 2!! Friends that lived in the same area of Vittoriosa, and became good friends were Christine Carroll, her two brothers John and Robert, and sister Geraldine. Also living close by were Catherine Condi and sister Elizabeth. Living in the flat below below were three children; Phillip was the eldest, his parents were Sam and Margaret. Would love to hear from any of you, or if anyone knows of them, let me know.Look forward to the growing development of the site and keeping in touch. | |
| 31 | 04-12-2001 | David | Wintrip | I attended Verdala between 1965 - 1968. My sister, Sally, attended Tal Handaq and my dad, John, was stationed at Dingli. The family all now live in Australia. Can't remember which House I was in but think it was Nelson. We lived firstly in Balzan and latterly in Egmont Close.
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| 30 | 02-12-2001 | Howard | Samuel | Hi! I was at Verdala from '59 to '61 (was it really that long ago??). Although the old memory is going (!), my main recollection is of part of the playground being designated for roller skating. Sister, Rowena, was at Tal Handaq. Dad was serving in HMS Narvik and HMS Forth. I also remember the flea-market run by military wives in Valletta - I bought all my comics there! Happy Days! I'm now ex-RN, currently working in Oman on the Sultan's yacht. | |
| 29 | 01-12-2001 | Chris | Cumper | The 1967 colour sports day piccy; I'm 5th from the left but I've no idea who the others were. | |
| 28 | 01-12-2001 | Anthony | Howard | I was a pupil, Drake House from 1967-69. Please get in touch ! | |
| 27 | 29-11-2001 | Vincent | Ramsey | I attended the school between 1971 -1974, and they were the (cliched) best days of my school life. Wing Cdr Bond was the Head, and my teachers included Mr Collins initially, followed by Miss Johnson. From this site I do remember Harry Perkins, Dawn Seaman, and Craig Tostevin. My favourite memories are the people who were there, and what a wonderful place to be taught that it was. Does anyone remember trying to catch Skinks and small Scorpions from under the rocks on the 'football' field. Also did anyone else find the tunnels at the bottom of that field that would take you out of the school and onto the field at the bottom. Remember playing marbles behind (I think) G block - on the path just in front of the swimming pool. Some games would eventually extend right across the playground. I my mother is Maltese, and I try to get back to the island whenever possible. Verdala is always one of the first landmarks I look for - it can be seen clearly on the horizon from Baracca gardens in Valetta. It still is a school - I have some young Maltese cousins - one of whom attends Verdala. how I wish I was still there!!! | |
| 26 | 18-11-2001 | Belinda | Ousbey / Loseby | So good to read everybodys coments about Verdala. I lived in Malta from 1956 - 1966 and was at school from 60-66. As you may have guessed my Dad is THE Mr Ousbey that you all talk about. We were in Nelson House. Yes the playground did always seem gigantic to me. Do you remember the swimming pool? I was always the last one to get changed!! My Dad still talks about when the Royal Marines did beating the retreat in the playground. Will write more in the near future. Belinda | |
| 25 | 16-11-2001 | Anthony | Inglis | I was in Malta from 1952-1956, and attended Verdala. We lived in Qui-si-Sana, Sliema and remeber many things about Malta and Have been back 4 to 5 times since. Do not remember much about Verdala, accept, the buses to school, where the school was, the parade ground, class rooms, sports area and the tuck shop, which was surrounded by Turkeys, which I assume the caretaker raised for Christmas. The only Teacher/Head I can remeber was a Miss Veasey. Could draw a rough map of the layout of the school. did know some boys, namley Joey Noble, Graham Slack, Robert Gorman. Girls - Gloria Greenwood , Anne Sladden, Burnice White, Sandra Butler. | |
| 24 | 14-11-2001 | Janet | Rawson | Well, last night I went for a drink with Christianne Morris who contacted me through Friendsreunited. I was at Verdala from 64 to 67, and Christianne and I were classmates in Mr Ousbey's class and then Mr Woodham's. I had a fabulous evening catching up on historical memories and we've decided to we'd like to meet again next month. Somewhere in Convent Garden if anyone else from these years would like to join us? I remember arriving nervously in Mr Ousbey's class when he was teaching us how to make paper stained glass pictures. He was so immensely kind and patient with me that my nervousness disappeared swiftly. I also remember Mr Ousbey and the school panto's, apparently my mum has a programme from the Something of something of Bodmin Moor. I'll try to get it put onto the site. 25 years ago, my dad, Bob Rawson, a Band Master in the Royal Marines - he did two musical parades in the playground at the school, anyone remember those? - left the services and decided to become a piano tuner. He went to Newbury to study and got in contact with Mr Ousbey who was well and happy. No contact since then though. Weird feeling evoking all those childhood memories! 11+ in the hall....aagh! | |
| 23 | 14-11-2001 | Ian | Walsh | I was at Verdala between April 1963 and April 1965 with my two brother Kevin and Paul. We lived at St Julians/Balutta Bay. I took my family to Malta in 1989 - I was please to still recognise so many placed. | |
| 22 | 11-11-2001 | May | Rankin | My maiden name was May Mahood,and I was at Verdala from1951 - 1952 and then on to Tal-Handaq till 1954. I was very friendly at that time with Maureen Knowlin. My husband and I were at Malta on holiday and I had a great trip "Down Memory Lane". Glad to have found yourweb site ,keep up the good work. | |
| 21 | 11-11-2001 | David | Pickett | I was there from summer 1958 till autumn 1960. | |
| 20 | 10-11-2001 | Judith | Cross | I started my school career at Verdala aged 4, in 1954, so do not remember much about it, except that I fell off some bars in the playground, and hurt my nose on the dusty, gravelly ground. My dad, Arthur Cross, was based at Dingli, and we lived in Sliema. | |
| 19 | 10-11-2001 | Craig | Tostevin | Hi,Great site, I attended Verdala between 72-75. Many happy memories like everyone else, who couldn'nt be happy 10 yrs old in Malta and finishing school at 1 pm in the summer. I have some pictures of sports days but keep making the files to big! will keep trying. | |
| 18 | 07-11-2001 | Penny | Failes | I attended Verdala 1958-1960 - I was Penny Tucker then! I now live in Wollongong NWS Australia - I was alerted to this new website by my teacher at Verdala Liz Mardel (then McMeeking) - it's very exciting to make contact as I have very happy memories of the school and Malta | |
| 17 | 04-11-2001 | Bob | Osborn (Ozzy) | Verdala from 1957 to 1960(ish) then Tal Handaq for a year. Form Teachers were Mr Ousby, Miss Candy and Miss Rowe as far as I recall. Do email me if any one was around at that time. | |
| 16 | 04-11-2001 | Carl | Wood | The Staff line up which is featured (1965/66) is of particular significance to me because that was our last academic year at Verdala. I was in Miss Leslie's class whilst my Sister, Susan was in Mr Rowley's. Does anyone remember us? | |
| 15 | 03-11-2001 | Phillip | Rose | So much to remember about my time on the island and 57-60 at Verdala. Does anyone remember a Miss Rowe?? whose weapon of choice was some sort of rounders batlike a large wooden spoon, think I got paddled with it a couple of times. How many people remember when they ran out of space in the main school area and opened classes in the barracks opposite the main entrance. Think for a time we shared the place with a number of Royal Marines, all very exciting. A gentleman by the name of Peter Prictoe has wriiten some very interesting articles on Malta, including one on Veradala, well worth a look at. On one of the rare occassions we were able to go through to the far end of the site where there was a large open area, I remember looking down into the fortifications and seeing much activity with people appearing to move large ammounts of Naval Stores arround, and to this day I wonder what actually was stored under our school!!!!! | |
| 14 | 03-11-2001 | Pam | Cossins / Skeet | Well done to whoever has composed this site. I was at Verdala from '53 - '56 and lived at St Julian's. It's been a real trip down memory lane reading Friends United and these entries. My best friend at school was Barbara Thurlow who lived in the flats at Egmont Close. Does anyone remember Miss Candy? We had to take a towel to school and wash our hands in the classroom sink before we sat at our desks. On reflection probably a good idea as we spent all play time on the rope frame or building "rooms", complete with doorways in the dust with lots of little pebbles. I remember the Star of Malta capsizing at Dragonara Point very clearly and swimming out into St Julian's Bay for the crates of peaches which floated in next day! Remember standing on sea urchins?, the wonderful cheese pastries and The Lido? Roller skating at Spinola? - etc., etc. and all such fun. P.S. I was in Stevenson house and wore a green sash - we sat cross-legged on the floor during assembly (which seemed interminable!), plaiting the fringes at the end | |
| 13 | 01-11-2001 | Valerie | Burns / Tremain | I was at Verdala from 1951-54 and lived on St. Julians Hill. I also found this site through friendsreunited. I was in Drake house and last class 1AJ. I remember the buses to school, taking our chairs out for lessons under the trees, the rope climbing frame, playing the triangle in music lessons. It's amazing how all the memories come flooding back after all these years! | |
| 12 | 27-10-2001 | Nina | Wigg / Swift | I was at Verdala in 1954-6'ish and have been going down memory lane with Alastair (of Tigne!!) on friendsreunited though he was at Verdala years after me - it seems things didn't change much but I have fabulous memories of Malta, Verdala etc and lived in St Julian's Bay, Sliema. When we first arrived in Malta we were put up by the Navy at the Plevna Hotel in Sliema (does anyone else remember that Hotel ? spelling ? I think a lot of Navy families started live there!). Tigne beach, octopus, huge waves, swimming out to rafts, snorkelling and school at Verdala with lessons on the roof, half days in the height of summer, sports days, light coloured uniforms and bright sashes! I was in the school's performance of Sleeping Beauty (a fairy or cobweb or something!!!) aged about 7 or 8!!) and remember it well, staying after school to rehearse!! I wonder if anyone else of my era will find the site! Over the years following Verdala, I bumped into various people in other Naval places i.e. Singapore, Gib etc...and nearer to home, Bath (Admiralty) - always a small world. Good days. | |
| 11 | 26-10-2001 | Carl | Wood | Comment:- Re-submitted from the Forum by the Verdala webmaster. Original message dated 23/10/2001 Great idea and I hope to see some photos of the school grounds. I attended Verdala between 1963 and 1966. My teachers were Mrs Jackson and Miss McNally in the infants and Miss Leslie in the first year Juniors. My Dad was stationed at Dingley (GCHQ) and did a tour between 1956 and 1959 aswell. I can't remember any of my classmates apart from Stepen Why (son of music teacher) I wonder if anyone knows if any records exist of the classes. other people I remember are Raymond Googe and Helen Mail, but they weren't in my class I dont think. If anyone knows me please get in touch. CARL | |
| 10 | 25-10-2001 | Tony | Wright | I was at Verdala '61-'63 - along with my sister Celia .Iwas in Drake House -she was in Nelson. We lived in Msida,Dream Flats! | |
| 9 | 23-10-2001 | Rosalie | Hide/Stephens | I went to Verdala from 1957 - 1964 with a break of a year in 1961. I lived in Egmont Close in sliema for most of that time. Does anyone else remember the area. I know the name Chris Jenkins - Did you live down the hill on the way to the rocks at St Juliens? | |
| 8 | 18-10-2001 | Chris | Jenkins | Excellent idea. Like Rosalie Hide, I, too, was at verdala from 1958 - 1964 and, thus, have lots of memories and remember many names - Rosalie, Rona Smith and Alan Evens stick in my mind too! My father, Roy Jenkins taught at Verdala and many of you who were there in 58-64 will probably remember him and the pantomimes he used to direct. Both my parents are well and living in Evesham. I saw a mention of Jack Ousbey. When I last heard he was well. Any of you who have been through the 'Rosie & Jim' stage with your young (as I have) may have noticed that he was the Educational Adviser to the publishers of the comics etc. Indeed, my ma-in-law's next door neighbour (publisher of such works) knows him well. | |
| 7 | 16-10-2001 | Christiane | Morris | Great idea. I was at Verdala from September 1963 to July 1967 and my teachers were Mrs Lewis, Mr Ousby and Mr Woodhams for the last two years. I was in Hawkins and was the house captain and vice-captain for the last year at school. Sad eh, that I can remember all these details.
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| 6 | 16-10-2001 | Rosalie | Stephens | I went to Verdala School from 1958 to 1964. I went back to Malta last year on holiday and drove to the school. It looked so small - the front gates which I remember as being gigantic were in fact not at all and the driveway which I though was really wide was quite narrow. I would love to hear from anyone there at that time. Names I recall are Rona Smith, Jacqueline Duncan, Valerie Evens, Alan Evens, Chris Whittle. | |
| 5 | 15-10-2001 | Madeline | Court / Havis | Found your website through friendsreunited. It has taken me back a long way | |
| 4 | 14-10-2001 | Carl | Eves | I was only at the school from 1974 to 1976 when I moved to Luqa as we were given a Quarter on the base.I loved every minute of it. I have been waiting for a site like this for ages. I keep trying to explain to my kids about the school but cant seem to get the right words out. It would be great to see some old photos of the school.I have some old class photos which I will try to send to you if I can work out how to do it as im not to good with computers regards Carl | |
| 3 | 14-10-2001 | John | Hadley | I was at verdala from 1964 to 1966 and I do appear in one of the photographs in the display area. After some 35 years it is interesting to cast one's mind back and to remember events, places and people that have remained locked away in the mind all these year. The obvious thought is where are the people now that I knew and called friends. Being in a naval family I got used to moving on every two-to-three years: this I regarded at the time time as normal though as an adult I now realise what a wonderful experience this was. Perhaps this website will assist in bringing together those I got to know along the way (and, for a short time at least, called friends) and who may also be reflecting along similar lines. Well done for putting this together. | |
| 2 | 13-10-2001 | Trudy | Begg | It is so good to see all of this coming together...we all spent a small amount of our lives in Malta,leaving friends behind as the tour of duty ended..often I have wondered what happened to everybody. This may serve to bring a lot of us together again. | |
| 1 | 08-10-2001 | Alastair | Newman | I have a year book (brochure style)for the year 1965/66. Some good pictures of the school teams and some inspiring written verse! It will be fascinating to find out where people are now. Already located 2 people through Friends Reunited within a week. I participated in just about every sporting event. I was Vice/Captain of Nelson in 1965-66.
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